Chapter 221: It Seems I Misjudged Her

Cecilia's eyes were tightly shut, her body trembling slightly. Nathaniel's hand paused. Realizing she wasn't asleep, he stopped. Beads of sweat trickled down Cecilia's forehead. She sighed in relief as his caress ceased.

The night was deep. Despite holding Cecilia, Nathaniel eventually went outside. When Cecilia awoke in the early morning, he was gone. Last night felt like a dream. Cecilia paid it no mind and freshened up. Standing before the mirror, she composed herself before leaving the bedroom.

The study door was ajar. Cecilia saw Nathaniel, sitting upright, a figure of poised elegance. He had resumed his aloof demeanor, his sharp gaze scanning files. Reflecting on her plan, Cecilia swallowed her pride, stepped forward, and knocked.

"What's the matter?" Nathaniel asked, without looking up.

"I'm sorry about yesterday. I was too upset," Cecilia explained reluctantly.

Nathaniel held a document, his gaze fixed on the first line. He couldn't concentrate. He closed the document and looked at Cecilia. She was plainly dressed, her complexion pale, her slightly disheveled hair cascading over her shoulders. He felt a pang of pity, a familiarity tinged with something different, something he couldn't quite define.

"Come here."

Cecilia approached him.

"Let's return to Rainsworth Manor. I need to apologize to Lily."

Nathaniel's gaze fell upon her. His lips parted slightly. "Why do I sense dissatisfaction?"

Cecilia's hand tensed. "I'm not willing, but for you, I'll apologize."

Nathaniel scrutinized her. He was used to her humble demeanor, but now, it felt…different. He found himself asking, "Do you still love me?"

The question surprised even him. He'd asked before; Cecilia had said she didn't know. This time, she said, "Yes, I do." Though familiar, the answer left him uneasy.

He averted his gaze. "Pack your things. We're returning to Rainsworth Manor shortly. And there's no need to apologize to Lily."

Lily had been sent abroad last night, never to return. Cecilia, unaware, didn't question it. She packed.

Back at Rainsworth Manor, Elena had gained a new perspective. Sipping warm milk, she felt gloomy. "I thought she was without ulterior motives, but it seems I misjudged her." Setting down her milk, she asked her secretary, "Tomorrow is Thanksgiving. Is Felix's preschool closed?"

The secretary nodded. "Yes, they close at noon today."

"I'll pick him up. Bring the toys I bought."

"All right."

Elena planned to meet Jonathan while collecting Felix. She cherished the child, wishing he were her grandson.

A housekeeper arrived. Elena sat on the sofa, a peculiar emotion in her eyes. She dismissed everyone, then went to the attic alone. Pushing open the long-unused door, she found everything covered in white sheets. She pulled out her phone and texted Cecilia.