Chapter 874
Chapter 877:
“Understood. I shall comply,” Erica affirmed with a nod.
After a brief moment, Stannis conducted a comprehensive examination of Arlo. Once he confirmed the absence of any ancillary issues, he departed with some nurses, leaving Erica alone with her thoughts.
Erica made her way to the window, gently parting the curtains, revealing an expanse of tranquil sea. Waves rolled over each other, their cadence whispering serenity.
Returning to Arlo’s side, Erica looked at him, in an oxygen mask and a labyrinth of tubes. Emotions surged within her, an amalgamation of love, longing, and gratitude.
With tender devotion, Erica clasped his hand, her touch a gentle caress, her eyes suffused with adoration, as though beholding a precious treasure.
“Do you know, my dear? Our son has found someone to cherish! He mirrors you in every way imaginable. Your resemblance extends beyond the physical, permeating your shared character. Even the objects of your affection are aligned. It’s rather comical, don’t you think? I never imagined he would develop feelings for Corrine’s daughter. Are you as astonished as I am? Her name is Candice Blake, a name derived from her mother’s lineage. She is a paragon of beauty, blessed with a virtuous character. A lawyer by profession, astute and capable. Initially, I was unaware of her connection to Corrine. I genuinely adored her. Isn’t it ironic? It seems I’m fated to be entwined with the Blake family, unable to extricate myself from their web.”
Erica’s lips curled into a self-mocking smile as she continued to pour forth her thoughts.
“But fear not. I shall not be a stumbling block on their path. You should know me after we’ve been married for so long. Whether it is you or our son, my sole desire is your happiness. As for me, it matters not anymore. I feel content.”
Erica talked to Arlo for a while.
After some time, an unexpected surge of inspiration coursed through her, prompting her to rise from her seat. She resolved to breathe new life into the room they occupied. She wanted to make it livelier, not as cold as a ward.
𝗡𝗲𝘅𝘁 𝗽𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗮𝘁 g𝖺𝖑𝖓𝗈ν𝖊𝗅𝘀⫶ⅽ𝗈𝗺
Over the past three years, Erica had subtly moved Arlo’s belongings from his study within their Ploville house to here. They were now all placed in the next room. Erica had once believed that if Arlo were to suddenly awaken and seek solace in the villa, these items would serve a purpose. Year after year, she had finally moved everything from his study into this new space.
Determined to bring her vision to life, Erica summoned a servant to help her tidy up the room.
Together, they adorned it with Arlo’s most cherished paintings, which brought life to the walls. His treasured shelf found its place once more, carefully arranged with antiques. With tender care, they transferred Arlo’s bookshelves, laden with the literary treasures he held dear, into the newly refurbished space.
As the final touches were applied, dusk began to gently settle upon the world, casting a warm blanket of sunlight across the sea’s surface. The waves shimmered beneath the fiery hues of the setting sun, emanating a resplendent golden glow that captivated the senses.
In this ethereal moment, a sudden realization washed over Erica—tonight, the Royal Garden Corporation would host a celebration party. Her commitment to Candice compelled her to attend, a promise she had nearly forgotten. After all, she hadn’t planned to take part in it before.
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