Watching You Burn In Regret novel Chapter 113

The cemetery lay on a hillside nearby, where generations of the Rutledge family rested together.

They went on foot, a quiet procession winding up the path.

Seren and Nadine walked on either side of Old Mr. Rutledge, each supporting one of his arms. Lennon kept close to Seren, carrying the offerings in one hand. Whenever the trail grew uneven, he would instinctively reach out with his free hand to steady her, never missing a beat.

Susan and Hollis followed behind, sharing a glance as they noticed this small but telling gesture.

When they reached the grave, the air was heavy with memory. They began the rituals for Mrs. Rutledge.

The old man set out the offerings carefully, one by one, then lit three slender candles. He stared at the photograph on the headstone for a long, silent moment, before stepping aside to quietly wipe his tears where no one could see.

Susan went next, taking Nadine's hand and beckoning Hollis to join. Each of them lit three candles in turn.

Finally, it was Seren and Lennon's turn.

After lighting their candles, Seren lingered. She took Lennon's hand, gazing at the faded photograph on the headstone, and spoke softly.

"Grandma, this is Lennon—my husband. You don't have to worry about me anymore. I've found a good home. Lennon treats me well, and so does his family. They respect me in every way."

Her grandmother had always worried about her, fussing that Seren's quiet, reserved nature meant any hurt she suffered would go unnoticed. That if she didn't find a good family, she might be unhappy all her life.

But now, those worries could be laid to rest.

Lennon squeezed her hand gently. He looked at the photograph, his voice steady. "Don't worry, Grandma. I'll take care of Seren."

Their fingers were tightly entwined, eyes meeting in a silent understanding.

Susan watched from a little distance. She knew Seren was slow to warm up to people. She'd been quietly anxious about the two of them marrying so quickly after meeting, unsure if there was any real affection between them.

She was halfway down the steps when Lennon called out, "Wait a second."

Seren stopped and glanced back at him.

The setting sun cast a golden glow over Lennon's face, making him look even more handsome than usual. Seren found herself staring until she suddenly felt the weight of something warm settle over her shoulders.

She glanced down—Lennon had slipped off his coat and draped it over her, the fabric still carrying his warmth.

He didn't say a word, simply took her hand and led her toward the parking lot, as if this were the most natural thing in the world.

Seren lowered her gaze, feeling the warmth from his coat seep in, a gentle current of comfort blooming inside her.

On the way back to Rippling Gardens, they hit the evening rush hour. For part of the drive, they found themselves stuck in traffic, side by side in the quiet cocoon of the car.