Broken Vows and Buried Twins novel Chapter 52

Bella didn't just want to be discharged; she insisted on moving straight into Stellamare Villa.

The moment she made the demand, a knot of pure dread formed in Hester's stomach.

Her instincts were right. The second they stepped out of the hospital suite, Julian demanded she move back into the villa. They couldn't afford a single slip-up, at least not until Bella's surgery was over.

Hester was fiercely opposed to the idea. Julian promised it was strictly to keep his grandmother calm. He swore he would sleep in the home office; they only needed to maintain the illusion of a happily married couple.

After weighing her options over and over, Hester finally caved. She packed a small duffel bag with only the bare essentials—a few changes of clothes and her toiletries.

She had consulted with the cardiologist, who confirmed Bella would be ready for surgery in about two weeks. For the sake of Bella's health, Hester could grit her teeth and endure anything for fourteen days.

...

Two days later at Stellamare Villa.

A sleek black luxury SUV pulled into the sprawling driveway. As the vehicle rolled to a smooth stop, the rear doors slid open automatically.

Julian stepped out first, offering a steady hand to help Bella out of the car. Inside, Hester gently supported the older woman from behind.

"Easy now, Grandma. Take your time."

Bella was still frail, but with the two of them guiding her, she managed to step out safely. Joanna quickly wheeled a medical chair over to them.

Eased into the seat by Julian and Hester, Bella settled back with a sigh. She reached out, grasping Julian's hand in her left and Hester's in her right, tilting her chin up to look at them both. "I hope you two aren't going to find an old woman like me too bothersome."

Hester gave her a chiding look. "Don't be ridiculous. We're family. We're supposed to live together and take care of each other. Besides, I'm thrilled you're staying with us!"

Bella let out a soft, pleased laugh. "My Hester always knows exactly what to say. Not like Julian, who walks around with a scowl like the whole world owes him millions of dollars!"

Julian was used to being the target of his grandmother's teasing. He simply played along, murmuring, "She does know what to say."

Hester's eyelashes fluttered. She forced herself to completely ignore Julian's presence and grabbed the handles of the wheelchair. "Let's get you inside, Bella."

"Alright."

...

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify