Chapter 122
hapter 122 A Shared Loneliness Understood
Arabella felt she hadn’t misjudged him at all.
She had met Matthew on more than one occasion, and every time, he wore that same detached expression, as if the world owed him something.
She didn’t care for that vibe one bit.
Hearing Arabella’s words, Florence frowned slightly. “Matthew has the same cool demeanor around Naomi p>
“Yeah, haven’t you noticed?” Arabella replied offhandedly.
“Even though Matthew previously mentioned calling off the engagement, it seems Naomi’s feelings for him haven’t changed,” Florence mused thoughtfully.
“You can definitely tell she’s still very warm and attentive toward him, but Matthew doesn’t return that warmth at all,” Arabella stated calmly.
Florence’s frown deepened slightly. If she followed Arabella’s observation, it seemed there wasn’t much hope of reconciliation between Matthew and Naomi.
Then, Florence looked at Arabella with affectionate eyes. “Arabella, Matthew is a good man at heart. Our families have been close for years. When you have the chance, try to show him a little kindness p>
“Why should I go out of my way to be kind to him? He’s not my patient,” Arabella said, looking back at Florence with a puzzled expression.
“Matthew lost his parents very young. Robert raised him, and his reserved personality now likely stems from that,” Florence explained, sharing Matthew’s background because she worried Arabella might gradually pull away due to his aloof exterior.
“Oh, I see. I just thought he was naturally p>
Arabella trailed off, stopping herself.
Hearing about Matthew’s past, Arabella finally understood the reason behind his perpetually stern demeanor.
“So, aside from Robert, he doesn’t really have any close family left. If you have time, try to talk with him a little more.
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“Don’t be fooled by his success–Matthew’s life has been quite lonely. He doesn’t even have a true confidant by his side,” Florence said with genuine feeling.
Seeing Florence’s eyes grow slightly misty, Arabella reached over and
took her hand. “I think I understand how he might feel now p>
She, too, had grown up without an abundance of warmth, and she knew how heavy that could feel.
“The reason I’m asking you to be kind to Matthew is because I believe you, out of everyone in this family, can understand him best.
“Promise me you’ll try to talk with him when you can, alright?” Florence pressed gently, seizing the moment.
“Alright. If I have the opportunity, I’ll talk with him,” Arabella agreed earnestly.
Florence nodded, a satisfied look in her eyes. She had finally found a suitable way to encourage Arabella to spend more time with Matthew.
The next morning, after finishing her breakfast, Arabella looked across at Ethan. “Ethan, once the revised blueprints are ready, just email them to me. I won’t be stopping by the office for the next few days p>
“Sure. Do you have other plans?” Ethan agreed readily while asking.
“Frank arranged flight lessons for me a while back, but I’ve been too swamped to start p>
“Since things have quieted down a little, I thought I’d finally go get my license,” Arabella said casually.
“That’s a good idea. I’ve noticed the plane with your name on the hangar apron could use some activity,” Ethan remarked, having seen the sleek aircraft parked there every time he came and went.
Arabella smiled lightly. “Once I’m certified, maybe I’ll take you up for a ride p>
“I’d like that. I’ve actually thought about asking for a flight in your plane before,” Ethan admitted, having considered the idea more than once.
“It’s a deal then. Once I get my license, I’ll call you. Just don’t get cold feet,” Arabella teased.
“Those words aren’t in my vocabulary,” Ethan replied with easy
confidence.
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Naomi, who had been quietly listening to their exchange, finally set down her utensils after finishing her meal.
“Arabella, I’m meeting with my instructor today too. If you’re going, we could ride together,” Naomi said, looking at Arabella with a pleasant smile.
“Okay,” Arabella agreed.
Since she wasn’t entirely sure of the flight school’s exact location, going with Naomi the first time seemed reasonable.
“I’m finished. I’ll go change and wait for you in the foyer,” Naomi said to Arabella before leaving the dining room and heading upstairs.
Florence looked at Arabella with maternal concern. “Arabella, please be extra careful during your lessons. If it feels too difficult, you don’t have to push yourself. We can always hire a pilot for your plane p>
“Mom, don’t worry. Naomi’s been taking lessons for a while now without any trouble, so I’ll be fine,” Arabella reassured her.
Jonathan, however, felt quite at ease. “Florence, Arabella is even more capable than Naomi. If Naomi managed just fine, why are you so worried p>
Florence glanced at her husband. “It’s Arabella’s first time. She’s never been up close with a plane before, so of course I’m concerned p>
“Mom, if you’re really worried, I can go with Arabella,” Ethan suggested, noticing the anxious look in Florence’s eyes.
Hearing his offer, some of the tension eased from Florence’s expression. “That might be for the best p>
“Mom, there’s no need for Ethan to come. I’m an adult–how would it look if people found out my brother had to chaperone my flying lessons?” Arabella said, slightly exasperated.
“What do appearances matter? Safety comes first,” Florence insisted, her eyes still filled with
worry.
“Even so, Ethan doesn’t need to come. Frank arranged a certified instructor–they’re professionals. Besides, Ethan has his own work to do,” Arabella explained gently, hoping to reassure her mother.
Sara Lili
Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.