Orlena sobbed, burying herself in Harvey’s arms. Eloise, understanding, gently stroked her hair, and then gave Harvey a knowing look. She moved to Parker’s side, smiled softly and thanked the uniformed people present.
Parker had a vague idea of what was happening and saw them out.
The house finally settled, but Orlena’s suppressed sobs were still audible. Daniel seemed lost, but Eloise comforted him, whispering, “Mommy’s not feeling well. Would you like me to play with you?”
Harvey picked up Daniel, softly telling Eloise, “I’ll take Daniel to the office. You stay and comfort Orlena. It might be easier for her to talk to a woman.”
Eloise acknowledged with a nod. She prepared some toys and snacks for Daniel, gave him a kiss, and closed the car door behind him.
Back at the Manor.
Parker sat on the sofa, smoking. He tapped the seat next to him, indicating Eloise to join him. “Pauline’s with her now, Lou. Come, talk to me.”
Eloise obeyed and sat down.
Parker was fond of her and their conversation was always comfortable. “I actually support Orlena and your uncle, but it seems Brett is in a difficult spot.”
Eloise listened quietly.
After a while, he murmured, “If Brett can’t make her happy, no one else can.” After saying that, Parker left.
Eloise sat alone, sipping the tea a servant had poured for her. She took a while to comprehend Parker’s words before a faint smile graced her lips. In truth, Parker was a great father, very open-minded.
She went upstairs to check on Orlena.
After a morning of conversation, Orlena had finally fallen asleep. Eloise gently tucked her in.
Downstairs, she found herself reminiscing about the past year. She couldn’t forget the sight of Orlena standing in line with Daniel to buy smoothie. Orlena could only afford one cup after a long queue.
She dialed Brett’s number. His voice was weary but gentle. “How is she?”
“She’s okay. Just a bit sad.” Eloise hesitated before asking the question that had been bothering her. “Brett, is it true what the papers are saying? Are you really getting engaged to Ms. Stephanie?”
There was a brief silence before Brett replied softly, “Take care of her for another six months.”
Six months. All he needed was six months.
Eloise knew it was a sensitive topic and didn’t probe further. They chatted about Daniel a little more. At his age, he should be starting kindergarten, but Brett was firmly against it. Therefore, Daniel ended up staying home for another year.
At four in the afternoon, Eloise picked up Linda.
Harvey had come home early and brought Daniel with him. The two children were playing on the piano, but Harvey didn’t mind.
After a while, he asked a servant, “Where’s my wife?”
The servant smiled. “Madam is preparing dinner for Linda and Daniel.”
Harvey felt a warmth in his heart. Instead of going to the kitchen, he first checked on Darrien, then took a shower and changed into his loungewear.
In the kitchen, the other servants tactfully excused themselves. Harvey approached Eloise from behind, wrapped his arms around her and teasingly kissed her behind her ear. “Is there anything for me?”
Eloise, busy setting the table, giggled and swatted him away. “The servants have prepared your meal.”
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