Chapter 1864

Before Marlowe could reply, a car rolled up, the driver giving a quick honk to announce their arrival.
Marlowe turned to Mitchel with a faint smile.
Looks like its already here.
You can go back and have lunch now.
Mitchel nodded, stepping forward to open the car door for Marlowe.
His gentlemanly gesture was so natural that it tugged at her heartstrings.
As she slid into the seat, he leaned down, his voice warm.
Take care.
Let me know if you need anything.
Okay, Marlowe said, waving lightly.
Mitchel gave her a parting nod before turning away.
From the back seat, Marlowe watched him leave, his figure growing smaller as the car drove away.
Her chest felt unexpectedly heavy. She envied women Like Ariana those born with beauty, talent, and privilege… Compared to them, she was so plain, weighed down by her modest background and lack of extraordinary talents.
Marlowe took a deep breath, silently promising herself to seize the opportunity she had now.
One day, she would shine brightly, standing in the spotlight she had always dreamed of.
Since discovering her heritage, Ariana had made the Chadwick Mansion a regular sanctuary during her free moments, cherishing her time with Rodney and Catalina.
Although the revelation was overwhelming for her, she couldnt deny the blood ties she shared with Rodney.
Moreover, Rodney cherished seeing her and her two children frequently.
Knowing that his wishes were simple, Ariana felt it was her duty to spend more time with him.
Ariana lounged in the mansions living room, having just wrapped up her work, Catalina sat beside her, their hands intertwined in a gesture of familial warmth.
Catalina was genuinely happy for finally finding her brothers daughter after two decades, though beneath her smile lurked her concern about Mitchels past feelings for Ariana.
Yet, Mitchels recently composed demeanor had somewhat quieted these worries.
Across the room, laughter erupted as Rodney engaged in an animated game of tag with his grandchildren.
He played with theatrical flair while Melon valiantly protected Adele.
Rodney deliberately fell short in his pursuit to let Melon and Adele win.
Melon, ever observant, halted the game and retrieved a towel from a nearby servant to wipe Rodneys sweat.
Grandpa, are you tired? Maybe we should take a break now.
Melon was now used to calling Rodney Grandpa.
Little Adele also said, Grandpa needs rest.
Rodneys face lit up with pure joy as he waved off their worry.
Nonsense! Lets keep going! Their shared delight painted smiles on even the servants faces.
As dinner approached, Melons keen ears caught the sound of Mitchels arrival.
He bolted toward the entrance, shouting Mitchels name, with Adele trailing close behind him.
Mitchel crouched to their level, tousling their hair.
Why are you so sweaty? he inquired.
We played tag with Grandpa just now! Melon bounced with excitement.
Will you join us next time? Of course, Mitchel replied, scooping up Melon while holding Adeles tiny hand. Surprise colored Catalinas voice as she said, What brings you home tonight? Weve barely seen you lately.
Setting Melon down, Mitchel explained, I finished my experiment early, so I came home for dinner.
Catalinas gaze fell on the unfamiliar bag Mitchel had brought.
New clothes? No.
Its just a coat I lent to a friend before, Mitchel replied.
Well, wash up for dinner, Catalina said.
Arianas herelets enjoy a family meal.
Mitchel had already noticed Ariana while entering the house.
Hearing Catalinas words, he looked up at Ariana, who was also looking at him.
As their eyes met, Ariana smiled and nodded at him.
Mitchel nodded back without saying much and took the children to wash their hands.
Catalina, observing the subtle exchange between the two, felt a pang of unease twist in her chest.
She couldnt shake the feeling that the atmosphere was somewhat awkward.