Chapter 28

Frank covered his face, slowly realizing Noelle's efforts on his behalf. He'd always assumed the medicinal congee was simple to make. He regretted neglecting her, unaware of the extent of her contributions. He felt like a failure as a brother, finally understanding that Noelle wasn't merely sulking; she was hurt.

He turned to Gordon. "Bring me the gifts Noelle gave Xenia."

The butler was surprised. "Weren't those Ms. Liddell's peace offering? Wouldn't it be unfair to Ms. Quigley to take them back?"

"She already feels insecure living here; this will make her feel even more vulnerable. You shouldn't feel bad about some congee. Ms. Quigley even made you soup and got hurt doing it."

Frank hesitated, wavering as he recalled Xenia's burnt hand. "Forget it," he said. "Just bring the gift I prepared, and leave the rest alone for now." He knew he needed to change.

That evening, after dinner, Noelle locked herself in her room. A knock came, and Frank's voice called, "Noelle, it's me."

She opened the door, her expression blank. "What do you want?"

"This is for you."

She saw a box containing a familiar emerald necklace—the apology gift she'd given Xenia. She wondered what her brother was up to.

Frank admitted, "I know I've hurt you. I'm returning this necklace, and I'll buy Xenia a new one. This necklace is special to you; I shouldn't have asked you to give it away." He'd spent the day regretting his actions at the banquet.

Noelle was surprised. She'd never expected him to "return" the necklace.

In her past life, she'd never gotten anything back before her death.

Noelle averted her gaze. "Forget it. Gifts aren't meant to be taken back."

"Please accept it, Noelle. I'll feel terrible if you don't. Think of it as my apology."

She questioned his apology, wondering if it was a carrot after the stick.

Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Xenia hiding nearby. She deliberately raised her voice. "You shouldn't do this, Frank. I gave this to Xenia; how could you take it without asking? You'll hurt her feelings. Aren't I right, Xenia?"

Guilt flashed across Frank's face when he saw Xenia. He hadn't asked for her permission.

Xenia emerged. "Noelle, I was keeping them for you. I'm happy to return them. I know someone like me doesn't deserve such valuable things."

She sounded sincere, then pretended to be hurt, wiping away tears.

Frank panicked. "Xenia?"

Noelle leaned against the doorframe. "You had better go comfort her, Frank."

Frank pressed his lips together. "I came to apologize, Noelle. Why did you have to hurt Xenia? I know I've made you sad, but Xenia hasn't done anything wrong. Besides, don't forget her father saved your life!"

A self-deprecating smile touched Noelle's lips. She should have known nothing had changed. She'd nearly fallen for his act.

Chapter 29