Chapter 543 Can We Start Over

“How can we not go to the hospital? Aren’t you…” Cecilia began, but Nathaniel silenced her with a kiss, impatiently undressing her. He was certain the medicine wasn't the cause of his actions.

“Nathaniel, don’t…” Cecilia tried to protest, but he steadied her. She noticed the metallic taste of blood in his mouth. “Your mouth,” she said, concerned.

“I bit my tongue,” he admitted, a lump forming in his throat. He lifted her into his arms. As his bathrobe fell, she saw his skin was flushed red from the cold shower. Stunned, she found herself pinned beneath him.

The next morning, Cecilia awoke to scattered clothes and Nathaniel’s embrace. She remembered his relentless pursuit the previous night, despite her refusals; he had acted possessed. Thankfully, the child was unharmed.

Nathaniel awoke, sensing her nearness. “Ceci, Ceci…” he murmured, his Adam’s apple bobbing.

Remembering Nicholas’s words and the events of the previous day, Cecilia asked, “Nathaniel, be honest. Have your memories returned? Was the debt story a lie?”

He hesitated. “Who told you that?”

“Doesn’t matter. Is it true?”

Nathaniel finally confessed, “Yes, it’s true.”

Cecilia’s anger flared. Initially, she'd believed Nicholas’s account of Stella's visit to be a lie, but the truth was far more devastating. “Why did you deceive me?” she demanded.

“Would you have stayed if I hadn’t?” he asked, holding her close. “If I were blind but still had my memories and wealth, would you care for me?”

Cecilia was silent. Nathaniel’s eyes were red-rimmed; he feared another mention of divorce. “Can we not get a divorce, please?” he pleaded.

She didn’t answer. His fear intensified. He tightened his grip on her hand. “Even with my memory back, my words still hold true. Let’s pretend I’ve lost my memory and start over. I promise not to harm Eli and Jon. I’ve checked on Calvin; he’s fine.”

Cecilia listened, her expression complex. “Can we truly start over?”

“Of course,” he said, kissing her.

She remained skeptical. Hurt people are cautious, fearing repetition. “Can I take more time to think?” she asked.

“Okay,” he agreed. But in his mind, there was only one choice: to stay by her side. For a moment, overwhelmed, Cecilia pushed him away and stood. The media, usually present, were absent thanks to Mason’s arrangements.

That morning, Nicholas hadn't checked the news; he only received a message from Mason: “Mr. Nicholas, Mr. Rainsworth asked me to tell you he spent last night with his wife. He expresses his gratitude for your understanding.”