Chapter 204
Chapter 204 A Hospital Run
“Try not to worry. If anything was seriously wrong with him at the hospital, the doctors would have called you,” Ethan offered as comfort
“I suppose you’re right.”
“Alfred, I have to ask,” Arabella said, turning to him with concern. “Why do you come ho looking completely wiped out every single time? Is the job really that high–pressure?” Jonathan and Florence also looked at Alfred, their expressions mirroring Arabella’s concern.
“The pressure is intense. The assignments run for long stretches, and staying in a state of high alert the whole time is draining. But it’s fine, really. A few good nights‘ sleep in my own bed and I’ll be back to normal. Don’t fuss over me,” Alfred said, touched by Arabella’s worry. He gave her a reassuring smile.
Seeing an opening, Florence finally spoke up, “Alfred, will you be able to stay home for a proper while this time?” she asked hopefully.
Alfred looked at his parents‘ concerned faces. He knew they hated seeing him so run down. A warm feeling spread in his chest. “Yes, I will. I’ve got a longer break this time. I plan on spending a lot of it right here with all of you.”
“That’s wonderful. Tell me what you’d like to eat, and I’ll make sure we have it,” Florence said, her happiness evident.
Both Florence and Jonathan, who had been mentally preparing to broach the subject of a career change, decided to hold their tongues for now.
If he was going to be home for an extended period, they would have plenty of time to gently persuade him later. There was no need to rush the conversation.
“Anything you make is fine, Mom. Please don’t go to any special trouble,” Alfred said, not wanting her to overexert herself. After being away so often, simply sitting with his family and soaking in their care felt incredibly comforting.
“We’re all so glad you’re back, Alfred. The house always feels more alive when you’re here,” Arabella said, a genuine smile on her face.
She had once only dreamed of such warm, happy moments with a whole family. Now, living in this loving atmosphere, she felt truly content. It was a wonderful feeling.
“Look how happy you are. Has it really been that long since you last saw me?” Alfred asked, his gaze affectionate.
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Chapter 204 A Hospital Run
“Not since you left last time. So yes, it feels like a long time,” Arabella recalled.
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“When did you two get so chummy?” Ethan interjected, a hint of playful jealousy in his tone as he observed their closeness.
“Weren’t we always close? I was the one who picked Arabella up when she first came home What’s with the face? Are you jealous?” Alfred raised an eyebrow, teasing his brother.
“Just eat your food. Why are you so chatty this trip?” Ethan retorted, refusing to admit anything.
Watching their familiar bickering, Arabella, Jonathan, and Florence all shared an amused look.
*****
The next morning, at the Macdonald residence, Freya was up early. She had taken care with her makeup and changed into a smart outfit before entering the dining room.
Carter and Harper both looked puzzled to see her so dressed up.
It was Harper who gathered the courage to ask, “Mom, are you going out?”
“Yes. I’m heading to the hospital later to wait for Arabella. I refuse to believe she won’t show up to see Edward,” Freya stated, her expression dark.
Seeing Freya’s foul mood first thing in the morning, Carter didn’t dare speak. He simply focused on his breakfast.
Noticing his prolonged silence, Freya shot him an irritated look. “Do you have plans today?”
Carter looked up. “Yes. Did you need something?”
“What is it you’re doing, leaving early and coming back late every single day?” Freya demanded, her anger simmering.
“I’ve been trying to meet with potential investors. To get the factory running again,” Carter replied, his voice low.
Freya let out a mocking scoff. “You really think you’re capable of finding investors and reopening that place? I’d advise you to save your energy.”
“You never seem this invested when it comes to Harper’s problems, but you’ll run yourself ragged for a factory that’s already shut down. Do you have any sense of priority at all?”
Living under Freya’s roof and rule, Carter didn’t dare talk back when she scolded him.
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Chapter 204 A Hospital Run
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Having vented some of her anger, Freya seemed to calm down slightly. Without even looking at Carter, she issued a command. “Don’t go gallivanting off today. You’re coming to the hospital with me to wait for Arabella. You should start showing some concern for what’s happening to your daughter. Stop acting like it’s someone else’s problem.
“Did you hear what I said?” Freya’s voice rose a notch when Carter didn’t respond immediately.
“Yes, I heard,” Carter replied reluctantly.
Harper watched them timidly, then quietly continued eating her breakfast. At home, she often felt she had to tread lightly, her world dictated by her mother’s volatile moods.
Soon, Freya finished her meal. She glanced at Carter, who was still eating. “Haven’t you finished yet?” she asked, her tone impatient.
Hearing the displeasure in her voice, Carter put down his silverware, his own expression unhappy.
Freya then turned to Harper. “You are to stay in the house. Do not go anywhere. Is that clear?”
“Yes, Mom. If you catch that Arabella, you have to give her a good slap or two for me,” Harper said, her voice dripping with venom.
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