Chapter 228
Ele POV
52
As we stepped into the Hamilton family’s elegant sitting room, I was immediately struck by the warmth that enveloped us. The contrast
from the biting winter alt outside was almost overwhelming, and I couldn’t help but sigh in relief.
“Oh my goodness, I breathed, pulling off my gloves. This feels amazing.
Mrs. Hamilton beamed with pride as she gestured for us to take seats near the fireplace. ‘We always keep the sitting room extra warm
during winter. I had Martha prepare some special warming tea for you, dear. Given your condition, I thought you might appreciate
something to help with circulation.”
A staff member appeared almost instantly with a delicate china service, the aromatic steam rising from the cups promising immediate
comfort. I accepted the cup gratefully, taking a careful sip.
“This is incredible,” I said, my eyes lighting up with genuine appreciation. “There’s something so unique about the blend – it’s like nothing
I’ve ever tasted before.” I leaned forward slightly, adopting a playful tone. “You know, I had the most amazing South African tea yesterday,
and I’ve been thinking about it ever since. This time, Mrs. Hamilton, you’re not going to be stingy with me, are you? I’d love to try
whatever treasures you have.”
The effect was immediate. Mrs. Hamilton laughed delightedly, while Mr. Hamilton chuckled from his chair. I could see them both relaxing, their initial stiffness around their human guest melting away.
“What a delightful young woman,” Mrs. Hamilton said to Victoria, her approval evident. “So refreshing and honest.”
I noticed Victoria’s expression soften, a small smile playing at her lips as she watched me interact with her family.
“Peter,” Mrs. Hamilton called to her son, “would you mind going to your father’s study and wrapping up some of that Rooibos blend for
Elle? The one from the Cederberg Mountains.”
“Of course, Mother, Peter replied, his voice much warmer than it had been since we arrived. “I’ll package some of the best selections.”
“I think I need some air, Calista announced suddenly, her voice tight with suppressed emotion. “I’m feeling rather tired. All this….. is
overwhelming.”
Mrs. Hamilton looked at her daughter with concern. “Are you feeling unwell, sweetheart?
‘I’m just tired, Calista replied, not looking at me. “It’s been a long morning, and I think I’ll rest in my room for a while.”
She swept out of the room without another word, leaving a trail of tension behind her.
Victoria turned to Mrs. Hamilton with a questioning look. “Is everything alright with Calista? She seems rather upset.”
1/3
19:26 Thu, Dec 25
Chapter 228
62
Mrs. Hamilton sighed. “I honestly don’t know what’s gotten into her lately. Her moods are so unpredictable. Please don’t take her behavior
personally, Elle. She’s just… going through something.”
I shook my head with what I hoped was an understanding smile. “Not at all. We all have difficult days.”
But internally, I made a mental note. I hadn’t forgotten our previous encounters, and clearly neither had she.
Mr. Hamilton cleared his throat, clearly wanting to move past the awkward moment. “I’m afraid I have some business to attend to, but
please, make yourselves comfortable.”
As he excused himself, Peter returned with a beautifully wrapped package.
“The tea selections, he announced, handing me the package with a genuine smile.
“You’re so thoughtful,” I said warmly.
modern aesthetic was so different from what I was used to.
Peter seemed to notice my interest. “Are you finding the style here comfortable? I know it’s quite different from Blair family homes.”
Before us stretched an enormous, completely transparent conservatory that seemed to glow with its own inner light. The space was
was warm and humid, filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers.
19:26 Thu, Dec 25
delicate orchids, bold tropical blooms,
62
The beauty was almost overwhelming. Everywhere I looked, flowers bloomed in riot of colors
climbing vines heavy with blossoms. The design created natural viewing areas and walking paths that wound through the different levels.
Peter blinked rapidly. “Oh, yes… allergies can be quite limiting.”
I continued exploring, taking in every detail. “Peter, I had no idea you had this kind of talent! This conservatory is absolutely stunning –
it’s the most beautiful indoor garden I’ve ever seen.”
Peter was watching me intently, and when I glanced back at him, he said quietly, “As long as you like it.”
C
“Alex, I called to my assistant, “could you get my phone? I have to take some pictures of this.”
Alex handed me my phone, and I started snapping photos from different angles, trying to capture the magical quality of the space. I selected the best shots and quickly uploaded them to my social media accounts.
“These photos don’t even do it justice,” I said, scrolling through the images on my phone. “The way the light plays through all these layers… it’s like something out of a fairy tale.”
Peter moved closer, his voice gentle. “If you really like it, you should take some plants home with you. Many of these flowers are actually beneficial for pregnant women.”
My eyes lit up with excitement. “Really? I could actually take some of these beautiful flowers home?”
Comments
3
Write Comments
Cedella is a passionate storyteller known for her bold romantic and spicy novels that keep readers hooked from the very first chapter. With a flair for crafting emotionally intense plots and unforgettable characters, she blends love, desire, and drama into every story she writes. Cedella’s storytelling style is immersive and addictive—perfect for fans of heated romances and heart-pounding twists.

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: After One Night with the Alpha (Brad and Elle)
Not sure how the story ended without completing the circle on what happened to Sophia and Lester. That loop was just left hanging... what happened with the Blair contract of having to married Raymond? All Eleanor wanted was a piece of Rayne industries?...