Chapter 639
Tiffany's statement instantly altered Richard's expression. His eyes blazed; he looked like a wolf ready to pounce.
"I originally planned to let you go," he said, his seductive voice growing hoarse. "But let's do this instead."
Before Tiffany could react, he pulled her into his embrace. Their lovemaking was lengthy, alternating between gentle and domineering. They left evidence of their passion scattered across the vast bedroom.
It was nearly noon when the door finally opened. After bathing, Tiffany stretched languidly and descended the stairs. Though energized, the prolonged intimacy left her unsteady. Her knees buckled, and she nearly tumbled down the stairs.
Her heart leaped. Instinctively, she reached for Richard, who followed behind. He leaned against the banister, however, offering no assistance.
Damn man! she thought.
As she fell, Tiffany instinctively closed her eyes, but the expected pain never came. She remained suspended, floating mid-air with remarkable stability. Unlike Richard's previous support, this power felt intrinsic.
Her heart pounded. Almost subconsciously, she shifted, and her body landed softly on the ground.
Tiffany whirled to face Richard, her shock undisguised. He smiled gently, approached, and placed a hand on her waist. Whispering in her ear, he said, "Thank you for risking your life yesterday."
"What?" Tiffany blinked, finally comprehending.
Yesterday's blood transfusion had rendered Richard immune to all poisons. No venom or bite could affect him.
So, the blood transfusion also gave me Richard's abilities? If so, I've struck gold! she thought, excitedly wrapping her arms around his neck and showering his face with kisses. "That's great! Thank you!"
June, downstairs, glanced up at the sound and witnessed the scene. Quickly averting her gaze, she dispersed the other servants.
Richard smiled at Tiffany's excitement; it was a gift for her. This trump card ensured she could face any future challenge calmly and confidently. He had Kenneth to thank.
Tiffany remained exhilarated throughout the day. Feeling empowered by their shared intimacy, she approached their lovemaking with renewed vigor, leaving Richard breathless.
The next morning, as planned, the banquet was to be held. Tiffany awoke early, dragging Richard along to pick grapes from Royal Bay. The villa's decorations followed her vision precisely. She had requested a grape arbor and a small orchard, prompting Richard to have the existing garden leveled and redesigned. The fruit, already planted, was ripe for the picking.
Finally satisfied, Tiffany stopped. This banquet, the first with Richard and her family, was special. Two cars overflowed with precious gifts and supplements, but these fruits were unique, nurtured with spirit herbs. They enhanced beauty and countered aging. Humans couldn't defy nature, yet the Miracle Healer's existence seemed to do just that.
"Alright, let's go!" Tiffany smiled sweetly as she entered the car. John, the driver, nodded and smoothly set off.
At Cedar Ridge Villa, Charlie and Thalia waited expectantly. Their joy was evident upon seeing Tiffany and Richard. Eric, eager to greet them, called out, "Tiffany! Richard!"
The couple emerged, sharing a smile.
"Dad, Mom, Eric."
"Welcome back. Let's go in; it's windy out."
Hand in hand, they entered, but Tiffany froze at the sight of Daisy on the living room sofa.
"Tiffany, Ricky, welcome back!" Daisy greeted them.
Tiffany offered a half-smile. The use of "Ricky" was pointedly affectionate, intentionally blurring their relationship to outsiders.
Thalia frowned and corrected her, "Daisy, he's Tiffany's husband. Don't call him Ricky."
Daisy muttered, "They aren't married yet!" though her quiet voice was heard by all. The implication that their marriage was uncertain, and Tiffany's position as Richard's wife could be tenuous, hung in the air. The peaceful atmosphere turned frigid.
Charlie's expression darkened. "What nonsense? Their marriage is none of your concern! Go home. This isn't the place for you. Come back another day." The banquet was a Kelley family affair, and Daisy's interference was already unacceptable, much less her disruptive comments.
"I was just joking," Daisy said, pouting. "I'm doing this for Tiffany's own good. I don't want her to be hurt if she's ever dumped…"
The newly reunited couple's happiness was shattered by Daisy's insensitive remark. Charlie's face flushed with anger. "Who do you think you are? Get out!"