“Is it that you can’t have children, or just don’t want them?” Ivan’s words dripped with mockery, though his smile never faltered.

To anyone else, it sounded like nothing more than a brother teasing his little sister.

But Jarrod didn’t love Elodie. That much was obvious, even to Ivan. Naturally, if there was no love, there was no reason for Elodie to become a mother. And yet, she stubbornly clung to her battered, crumbling marriage. Ivan found it all unbearably ironic.

Elodie’s expression finally shifted, just a fraction.

Ivan had no idea about her health issues-how she might never have children of her own. Yet he chose this moment, in front of everyone, to ask the question. To the others, it sounded like a well-meaning nudge, the sort of “helpful” pressure families sometimes give young couples. But to Elodie, it felt like having an old wound ripped open for all to see: the pain of a loveless marriage, and the deeper ache of knowing she might never have a child.

She understood, of course, that Ivan had done it on purpose. But it was her private matter, and she had no interest in sparring with him here. Besides, the topic was too sensitive-it brushed too close to her marriage and possible divorce, things she couldn’t discuss.

Her voice was icy as she replied, “That’s really none of your concern, Mr. Harcourt.”

At the sound of the formal address, Ivan’s smile faltered, his brow creasing ever so slightly.

Alexander quickly stepped in, placing himself between them, his tone light but his body language protective. “Elodie has always been career-driven. She has a bigger world to conquer, and she’s never let herself be defined solely by marriage or children. Isn’t that something to celebrate?”

Ivan’s eyes narrowed, but he gave a noncommittal shrug. “You’re absolutely right, Mr. Sterling.”

Across the room, Jarrod had heard every word. He didn’t so much as glance at Elodie; his cool, clear gaze remained unchanged, betraying nothing. He sat there, aloof, as if none of it concerned him.

Sylvie, ever observant, paused for a heartbeat before casting a discreet glance in Elodie’s direction.

Some men, she mused, cherish the women they love so much that they barely dare touch them. But sometimes, it’s the opposite-when a woman isn’t loved, the man doesn’t even feel the most basic desire for her, let alone want a family together. In those cases, there’s just… nothing. She gave a subtle, knowing smile and shook her head, crossing her legs and settling back with an elegant, inscrutable air.

The conversation soon drifted away from the subject.

Queenie, seemingly oblivious to the tension, clung to Ivan’s arm and grinned at Jarrod and Sylvie. “Sylvie, does Mr. Silverstein like kids?”

Sylvie gave a soft laugh, her gaze gentle as she glanced at Jarrod. “He does. In fact, he’s just had the house plans redone all ready for a nursery.”

Queenie’s eyes sparkled with mischief as she winked. “Sounds like Mr. Silverstein is making plans for the future.”

Sylvie only smiled politely, offering nothing more. Jarrod, who never enjoyed discussing his private life, simply let the comment pass.

Elodie heard every word, but to her, such talk no longer had any sting. She glanced at Alexander and murmured, “The cruise route still has a way to go. I’d like to head back to shore.”

It was obvious the yacht had rooms prepared for tonight’s guests, but Elodie had no desire to stay in this atmosphere. Too long on a boat, and she’d get seasick anyway.

Alexander checked his watch. “Esmeralda should be playing on the deck below. We’ll go with you. There’s a launch on standby-they can take anyone back to shore at any time.”

Elodie shook her head. “No need. You two should stay and enjoy yourselves— there are a few potential business partners here, you might want to network.”

Alexander seemed to agree, so he didn’t press her further.

Quietly, Elodie slipped away.

But from across the lounge, Naylor noticed. He watched as she left, his thoughts turning to Ivan’s pointed mention of Elodie being married. After a moment, he turned to Jarrod with casual curiosity. “So, Elodie’s husband-seems like he knows Mr. Harcourt well, but we’ve never seen him around. How come he never shows up?”