Ice and Fire novel Chapter 526

When Lily returned to her room, she sat perched on the edge of her bed deep in thought, 'Why's Mond here? This is so bizarre! Doesn't he hate Jackson? Or did something change between them?'

The questions swirled in her mind so fast that they overwhelmed her. 'In all my years of experience, I have never seen that the grudge between Mond and Jackson has a possible resolution, let alone so fast! But, here they are, getting along well. He's treating Joe like a treasured nephew and there was no hatred in his eyes. Add to that, Joe isn't on guard when he is with Mond, and he is smart, so he would be. Did Mond make his peace with Jackson?'

Joe was up earlier than usual the next morning and rushed to wake Mond who was in the guest room.

"Uncle Mond, Uncle Mond, wake up! Hurry! Let's go check on mom at the hospital!" cried Joe while he stood at the side of the bed grasping Mond's arm and tugging him.

Mond blinked his drowsy eyes realizing the tugging wouldn't end. He glanced at his watch. 'It's just 8:15? Why is he up so early?' he wondered groaning inwardly.

"Joe, why are you up so early?" Mond asked groggily sitting up.

"I couldn't sleep because I miss Mommy so much. I want to see her," Joe answered.

Seeing the concern for his Mommy in Joe's eyes tugged at Mond's heart, and he knew Joe was very worried about Cherry.

"Okay, okay. Let me dress and we will go," Mond responded as he reached out tousling Joe's hair.

"Alright, I'll wait downstairs, but hurry up!" shot Joe as he ducked Mond's hand and headed for the door.

Staring at Joe as he walked away, Mond thought Cherry was lucky to have such a happy life. Not only did she have a son who cared so much about her, but she also possessed Jackson's love. He realized then, Cherry could live happily even without his company.

After diligently performing the mundane morning rituals to prepare for the day, Mond left the room.

Downstairs he found Joe holding two breakfasts.

"Uncle Mond, let's eat on our way, so we can get to Mommy sooner!" stated Joe.

"Mr. Mond, the young Master doesn't want breakfast at home, so I packed it for both of you. You can eat on your way. Later, I will prepare a breakfast and bring it to master and lady. Please, go to the hospital first," Lily said respectfully to Mond looking him in the eye as she approached him.

Mond nodded at her. 'She isn't a common maid. I can't find fault in her disposition, attitude or tone, ' he concluded.

"Fine," Mond acquiesced before he turned to Joe,"Okay Joe, let's go."

"Yes!" replied Joe a smile spreading across his face.