Chapter 121: I Want to Marry You

Nathaniel descended the stairs, his long legs carrying him toward Cecilia. He found her asleep on the couch, tear-streaked face buried in her hands, curled into a defensive posture. The air conditioning was low. He gently covered her with a blanket. Just as he was about to order breakfast, Stella entered, her high heels clicking on the floor, a breakfast tray in hand.

"Nathaniel, I brought you breakfast. Isn't today the company anniversary? Later, let's go…" Her words trailed off as she saw Cecilia. She froze, stunned.

How had Cecilia ended up here? Had they spent the night together?

Nathaniel looked at her, confused. "How did you get in?"

She had bypassed security, implying she used a fingerprint or facial recognition scan.

Stella clutched the breakfast bag, her face paling. "Madam Elena arranged it. She wanted to make it easier for me to care for you."

Elena had previously facilitated Stella's attempts to conceive Nathaniel's child, adding her to Daltonia Villa's security system. Stella had only found time to visit today. She'd tried calling Cecilia yesterday but couldn't reach her. Her gaze lingered on Cecilia before she finally looked away. "Nathaniel," she whispered, "what's going on?"

"Let's talk outside."

Cecilia hadn't slept well. After resting, she hadn't put in her hearing aid, so she remained unaware of their conversation.

Outside, Stella's resentment boiled over. "Why was Cecilia sleeping on the couch?"

Nathaniel took a drag of his cigarette. "I asked her to move back in."

Stella stiffened. "Nathaniel, aren't you divorced from Cecilia? Isn't this inappropriate?"

"We aren't married. Isn't your casual visit inappropriate?" he retorted.

Stella choked back tears. Nathaniel dialed the head of security.

Stella listened silently, frustration mounting. From her position, she could see Cecilia through the window. Suddenly, she recalled his words from a few days ago.

"Nathaniel," she declared, "didn't you say you'd give me two choices? I've made up my mind; I want to marry you."

Cecilia, emerging from the house, heard this and stopped.

Nathaniel looked at her. "Are you sure?"

Stella nodded firmly. "I'm sure." Even a loveless marriage—all I want is the title! Fearful he might change his mind, she added, "Nathaniel, you promised me. I won't let you back out."

He had offered a choice, but never truly intended to repay her life-saving act toward his mother with marriage. His recompense had already been substantial. He then saw Cecilia's silhouette in the window.

"All right."

Nathaniel pondered Cecilia's reaction.

Stella hadn't expected such ease. Her eyes shone with joy, and she glanced triumphantly at Cecilia, standing behind Nathaniel.