Chapter 231: The Desperation

Afterwards, it appeared the Harris family's ninth young master had metaphorically attacked them and then observed the spectacle from another room. Mia relayed this with utmost gravity, but Maggie found the situation ludicrous.

"One can easily imagine a scenario where, in that cramped space, longing, survival, morality, and principles became entangled," Mia explained. "Confronted by the overwhelming allure and cravings of drugs, should one yield to instinct or uphold moral standards? When confronted with a single dagger, is it wiser to use it against the other person or to keep it for self-defense?"

Timothy seemed to relish the scene, eagerly awaiting their responses. "When every choice requires the collaboration of two individuals, confronting the triple dilemma of desire, morality, and survival, a wrong decision could make further decisions difficult," Mia continued.

Maggie's interest piqued. "Please, tell me the result immediately," she urged.

"I couldn't possibly predict the outcome," Mia replied.

Maggie was speechless. Observing her silence, Mia grinned. "The circumstances were unpredictable, but rumor has it the eighth young master died, and his mother has withdrawn from society, rarely appearing in public, supposedly devoting herself to prayer with Old Madam Harris."

Maggie sighed. The story didn't have a perfect ending after all. "If a mother is willing to sacrifice herself for her child, there must be a line of mothers ready to do the same," she mused, acknowledging the depths of maternal affection. Under the influence of powerful drugs, when control and rationality are relinquished, it's impossible to anticipate individuals' choices.

Mia added, "I've heard that as a result of this incident, the ninth young master was confined for four years by Old Mr. Harris, and it was Nathael himself who intervened to subdue him. Upon his release, he caused quite a commotion."

Observing Maggie's continued silence, Nathael furrowed his brow, gently cupping her chin. "Keep this in mind," he said solemnly.

Maggie snapped to attention. "Understood," she nodded.

Unable to contain her curiosity, she asked, "Is he extremely dangerous?" She struggled to accept that someone like Timothy could commit such a horrific act.

Nathael's throat tightened. After a long silence, he said intensely, "I remember giving him a rabbit when we were children, and he cherished it dearly." Timothy was exceptionally devoted to the rabbit, rarely leaving its side. Because of his illness, he seldom went outdoors, and the rabbit brought him immense joy. Everyone knew how much he loved it. However, one sunny day, Timothy cruelly skinned the rabbit alive simply because it had hopped into someone else's arms. The boy, his face still innocent, was spattered with blood, yet his smile remained benign, his eyes clear and untainted. The Harris servants were astounded, but Timothy even placed a tombstone for the rabbit.

Maggie felt a lump in her throat. What became of Timothy? When she heard about him from Mia, it seemed she had only been married to Nathael for a year. Ultimately, she remained unaware of the Harris family's ninth young master. Abruptly, she recalled her first encounter with Timothy, the misplaced bracelet, and the enigmatic companion he mentioned. A heaviness settled in her heart. Perhaps, from the beginning, all their encounters weren't coincidences, but intentional approaches. Remembering Samuel's words, Maggie felt even more frustrated. Looking at Nathael, she realized her frustration hadn't reached its peak. Nathael had been observant. If he detected something…

"I understand," Maggie murmured.

As the car drove through the pitch-black night, the rain intensified, sending shivers down Maggie's back. Resting against Nathael, she whispered, "I feared you might misinterpret his assistance." For a fleeting instant, she worried.

Nathael looked down, his chin brushing her hair. "I won't," he whispered softly.

Maggie smiled faintly, looking up at him. "Do you have faith in me?"

"Of course," Nathael affirmed deeply.

Maggie smiled, tears shimmering in her eyes, as she looked at his strong, striking face in the dim light. Nathael treated her kindly, yet she knew she couldn't age alongside him. Reflecting on their previous evening's conversation about ideal companions, it felt like a distant memory. She had considered whether Nathael might be deceiving her, but she knew better. If he were truly that cunning, he wouldn't resort to such a straightforward lie; it would be too easy to expose. Moreover, Joseph's gamble in her previous life further convinced her Samuel was telling the truth. She rested her cheek against his, sensing a profound connection.

"Nathael, how long will your love last?" she asked, a question she once abhorred.

Nathael held her tighter, his voice tinged with emotion. "Until the moment love eludes me," he replied hoarsely.

Maggie smiled gently. "How would you describe that day?"

As the car crossed the bridge, Nathael gazed out the window. The lights illuminated the riverbank in a golden hue, while a distant ferry's whistle echoed through the night. "From the summit of the highest peak to the depths of the deepest abyss," Nathael chuckled softly, his eyes playful and serious.

Tears shimmered in Maggie's eyes, a touch of crimson in her gaze. Ignoring her injured ankle, she climbed onto his lap, embracing him and sharing a passionate kiss. Nathael eagerly returned the kiss, encircling her waist. Outside, the rain poured relentlessly, accompanied by fierce winds and thunder, creating an electrifying atmosphere. Amidst the chilling wind, booming thunder, and pouring rain, it was as if the heavens themselves were venting their fury. As the car sped ahead, their entwined silhouettes danced on the window, their passion blazing brightly.

It was unclear how much time passed before Nathael slowed down. Maggie's lips were flushed, her eyes captivating. "Aren't you yearning for?" she softly asked.

Nathael's dark eyes met hers. "You're not in a good mood," he said slowly.

Maggie fell silent, then grinned, snuggling into his arms. "Rainy days always make me feel melancholy," she murmured.

Nathael inquired calmly, in a low, raspy tone, "Why?"

A pang struck Maggie's heart. She remained silent for a moment before closing her eyes and whispering, "Because it feels…contaminated."

Nathael gently stroked her hair, unsure if he understood, and quietly declared, "I'll stay by your side at home during rainy days from now on."

Maggie smiled contentedly, tears welling up. "Yet, Nathael, I see no future ahead…"

(Note: The final "Send Gifts" and "70" appear to be unrelated and possibly remnants of a publishing or formatting system.)