Chapter 42: A Surprise Visit

Cecilia’s fingers tensed. Nathaniel sensed her stiffness and covered her hand with his own. His kiss was both passionate and urgent. Cecilia remained rigid, forcefully suppressing her feelings. Eli and Jon were still waiting for her. She decided to go along with him. Let’s see if I become pregnant, she thought. This thought colored her clumsy response.

Nathaniel paused, his stern brows relaxing. He unbuttoned his shirt and unbuckled his belt. Cecilia’s fresh scent, from her recent shower, filled the air, quickening his pulse. He gently placed her on the living room couch and removed her bathrobe. Cecilia’s fist tightened. She avoided looking at him, instead staring at the warm light above. Uncontrollably, she recalled the intimate photos Stella had sent her. Stella’s words echoed: "Did Nathaniel ever tell you he loved you, Ceci? He used to say that to me all the time."

Feeling Nathaniel's closeness, she asked, "Mr. Rainsworth, aren't you afraid Ms. Ross might get jealous if we continue?"

Her words halted him. His gaze turned icy as he demanded, "Are you really going to play dumb with me, Cecilia?"

Cecilia grabbed her bathrobe, shielding herself. "I have no idea what you're talking about," she claimed.

Nathaniel recalled a memory from years ago, deeply ingrained in his mind. His throat tightened, and his hand rested on her pale face as he leaned closer. "Why did you come back this time?" he asked. She had been gone for four years, and her sudden return was suspicious. Her heart pounded; he mustn't learn about their two children.

She forced a smile. "Mr. Rainsworth, are you suffering from paranoia? I'm not lacking in funds. I returned to help those with disabilities, like myself." Fearful of disbelief, she removed her hearing aid. "You should know I was born with a hearing impairment," she explained.

Nathaniel stared at the hearing aid, silent. He moved closer, their breaths mingling. "Since you claim not to know me, tell me what you've been doing these past four years," he questioned, his warm breath against her face. She could almost feel his heartbeat.

Swallowing past humiliation, she met his gaze. "Mr. Rainsworth, are you fascinated by my past because you fancy me?"

Nathaniel's heart sank. He abruptly released her hand. "You're overthinking it."

Cecilia knew he was heartless. She had pursued him for over a decade without success. It was best he didn't like her; she could leave with Jonathan and Elliot without guilt.

Her phone rang—a video call, undoubtedly from one of her sons. She extricated herself, donned her bathrobe, and ended the call. Nathaniel keenly observed her every move. "I'll get some wine, and we can talk," she said, deciding to settle things quickly so they could leave for abroad. She went upstairs. She uncorked the wine she had prepared, along with medicine and a sperm collection kit.