Chapter 397: Did Not Want to See Him Getting Bullied

Cecilia was unaware that Nathaniel had silently endured everything. He understood the dangers of his blindness better than anyone; countless people wished him dead. Now was not the time for pride.

“Thank you,” he said.

Cecilia sat down, offering him a pastry. “You should eat, too.”

Nicholas observed them sharing pastries, his usually warm eyes hardening. His assistant, Jocelyn, arriving shortly after, immediately noticed the pair tucked away in a corner. Unfazed by the surrounding ridicule, they were completely engrossed in each other.

Jocelyn closely studied Cecilia, acknowledging her beauty. Every gesture radiated a gentle elegance; her eyes, like crystal-clear springs, were utterly captivating. It was no wonder Nathaniel was reluctant to divorce her.

Meanwhile, in Niel’s study, Elena was being reprimanded for deceiving everyone and having Nicholas impersonate Nathaniel. She endured the scolding passively. Only when the butler announced it was time did she leave.

Niel, leaning on his cane, was surprised to see Cecilia. Without a word, he suggested they dine before continuing with the memorial. At that moment, Elena learned from the housekeeper that Jonathan had arrived.

“The weather is chilly,” she said. “Let the child rest and prepare some delicious food for him.”

The housekeeper nodded. Elliot, led to his room by a maid, admired the opulent architecture.

“Where’s Grandma Elena?” he asked.

“Madam Elena is busy today,” the housekeeper replied. “She suggested you rest. You’ll be staying here tonight.”

“Thank you,” Elliot said, his face innocent.

“Such a sweet talker,” the housekeeper murmured, charmed by the adorable and sensible child.

Meanwhile, Cecilia was unaware that her younger son had secretly taken a cab to have dinner with Nathaniel, pay respects to their ancestors, and then return home. Unexpectedly, after dinner, Niel insisted they stay.

“You’ll be staying tonight,” he said. “I heard you’re pregnant?”

Cecilia admitted it, knowing she couldn’t hide it much longer. “Yes.”

Niel’s face lit up. “At last, our Rainsworth family has another descendant.” He added, “Whatever you desire, just tell your mother. Don’t be shy.”

Niel had always prioritized profit. While her father lived, he’d shown Cecilia fondness. After his death and the Smith family’s bankruptcy, he’d grown distant. However, news of Cecilia’s pregnancy rekindled his concern.

“All right,” she said.

“Go and rest. I’m tired as well,” Niel said, leaving with his walking stick. A servant guided Cecilia and Nathaniel back to their residence. Along the way, they faced mockery.

From a distance, Miranda, Adrian’s wife, watched with confusion. She’d told Cecilia that Nathaniel might not be the man she loved. So why, with Nicholas’s return, did Cecilia ignore him? Her questions remained unanswered.

Cecilia ignored the mockery. Back in their room, she called the caregiver, stating they’d return the next day. After hanging up, Nathaniel said solemnly, “I’m sorry you had to go through that today.”

Cecilia was surprised. Honestly, she hadn’t felt slighted. Perhaps she simply didn’t care anymore.

“Don’t worry, I came here of my own accord,” she said. “Don’t overthink it. I came because I didn’t want to see you taken advantage of because of your vision problems. After all, you took the hit for me, which led to your eye injury.”