Page 167 of God of War (Legacy of Gods)

The reason I practically invited myself over for dinner with his parents was to have a chat with my father-in-law.

Naturally, Aunt Elsa was over the moon when I called. We went shopping first and she spoiled me rotten, bought me enough things to last me a year and insisted I get every dress I tried on.

After dinner, however, Uncle Aiden immediately retreats to his study for some pending business calls. Before I can follow him, Aunt Elsa drags me to the sitting area.

The King mansion stands tall and proud, easily rivaling the majesty of Buckingham Palace. Its baroque architecture and intricately designed decor exude an imposing quality that perfectly reflects its owner, Uncle Aiden.

But amidst the opulence and grandeur, tiny details reveal a softer side to the mansion. Cat figurines dotting shelves, niche paintings adorning walls, and the absence of pretentious statues all embody Aunt Elsa’s influence in adding warmth to the house. Her efforts to make the place feel more like a home rather than just a lavish estate speaks volumes about this family. Thesesubtle touches make the mansion feel lived-in, loved-in, and not just another lifeless symbol of wealth and power.

Growing up, I often wondered how Eli saw his parents’ place. I know he cares for them, but he also moved out as soon as he started uni and never came back to live under their roof.

Maybe, like me, he needs a breather and his own space that’s out of his parents’ orbit.

“Do you want tea? Digestives?” Aunt Elsa asks as we sit on the high sofa across from the turned-off fireplace.

“I’m good.”

“You didn’t eat much.”

“I literally have no place in my tummy anymore.”

She laughs, the sound soft in the silence. “I’m glad to hear it. I wish Eli could’ve joined us tonight.”

“He has a late meeting. You know, with everything that’s going on.” Which is why I chose this day to visit his parents. I don’t want him around.

“Yes, that.” Her brows knit together in a gentle frown before she sighs. “I’m just glad both of you are okay. I had a fright when I first heard about the incident. It brought back bad memories.”

“What type of memories?”

She lifts her head, a shifty look springing in her light-blue eyes before she forces a smile. “Nothing of importance. I just wish he’d take it easy sometimes.”

“Me, too,” I whisper.

“Oh, I’m so sorry, Ava. It must’ve been scary.”

“Not really. It was…something, but not exactly scary.” I grimace. “Not sure what that says about me, though.”

Especially since I fucked the guy right after and screamed his name as I came on his cock.

“It says you’re his match.” Aunt Elsa pats my hand. “I told you this before, but you don’t remember it, so I’ll say it again. I’m so happy you’re with him, Ava. I always believed he neededsomeone like you by his side and I’m glad he finally sees the vision.”

“I’m not doing much.”

“You’re doing more than you think. He seems happier and more relaxed.”

“Where? He’s always stone-faced.”

“I’m his mother. I know it when I see him. He’s changed and I like to think it’s for the better.” She squeezes my hand. “Thank you for helping him live a little, go out, breathe properly now and then.”

“I kind of blackmail him into it.”

She laughs. “And I’m grateful for that.”

“God. I hope he’s more like you.”

“He is.” She stares at an invisible spot on the wall. “Everyone thinks he’s exactly like his dad, but I also brought him up and made sure to ingrate morals into him. If he ever disrespects you, I need to hear about it.”

“He doesn’t do that.” And I mean it, he’s never disrespected me. He’s just a fan of breaking my heart whenever it mends itself back together.

---