Chapter 391: New Year

The Epean-style mantel clock chimed softly, announcing midnight. Martha glanced at the time. "It's already midnight," she said. "I'm off to rest."

"All right," Cecilia replied, watching the elderly woman leave. Her hand instinctively rested on her baby bump. Martha's words echoed in her mind, leaving her conflicted. Just days ago, Martha had despised Nathaniel. How had her feelings changed so drastically? Cecilia glanced at Nathaniel and the children, then shook her head. No. I can't make the same mistake.

Once the snow and branches were cleared, Nathaniel returned inside with the children. Cecilia immediately lit the fireplace. "Take a warm bath and then get some sleep," she instructed. The children nodded; they hadn't been exposed to the cold for long. Nathaniel, however, felt the chill. His slender hands were frosty red, but his expression remained stoic. He performed menial tasks, work unlike anything he'd ever done.

Cecilia felt apprehension about facing him. After warming the children, she quickly ushered them to bathe and change clothes. Perhaps the cold had done it, but the fire of desire in Nathaniel's heart seemed extinguished, replaced by a quiet resolve.

On New Year's Day, Cecilia awoke early, preparing a delicious breakfast and decorating the house. Having spent years abroad, she'd celebrated Christmas but never a New Year's Day. This year felt different.

Heading to the kitchen, she found Nathaniel chatting with the chef. Dressed casually in an apron, he possessed a warm, homely charm that surprised her. Hearing footsteps, he set down ravioli and turned. "Ceci," he said, his tone resolute. He'd learned to recognize people by their footsteps.

"Hi," Cecilia replied, feeling awkward. "Are we having ravioli for breakfast?"

The chef smiled. "I've prepared various vegetable-filled ravioli. Would you like to help wrap them?"

Hesitant with Nathaniel present, Cecilia blurted, "No, the kids just got back. I'm going to do their laundry," and quickly left.

In the laundry room, she slapped her face. "What's there to be embarrassed about? It's not like we haven't slept together before," she muttered, remembering their intimacy. Unaware, Elliot had been outside the door. Yawning, he asked, "Mommy, what are you talking about?"

Cecilia's face flushed as she saw him. "No, it's nothing," she replied.

Elliot, noticing her odd behavior, stepped closer. "Mommy, Jon and I saw what happened between you and Mr. Rainsworth last night. Don't worry, we won't tell anyone."

Cecilia was speechless. "You guys saw everything?"

Elliot shrugged. "It was just a kiss. No big deal—like being bitten by a dog," he reassured her.

Mortified, Cecilia thought, I can't believe the kids saw that! This absolutely can't happen again. Regaining composure, she said, "All right, sweetheart, why don't you check if the ravioli are ready?"

"Sure thing," Elliot replied, leaving.

Cecilia slapped her face again. Her phone rang; it was Elena. "Come back to the Rainsworth residence with Nathaniel to celebrate New Year. I'll arrange a pickup," Elena said.