The Unveiled Rose novel Chapter 34

Her bedroom was spacious. It was decorated as if it had leaped straight out of a fairy tale—pristine and lavish.

She was dressed in a princess gown with multiple layers, clutching a long-eared bunny plushie. She was sitting on the carpet with her back to the door, silent as night.

Reuben was desperate to cheer her up. "Joyce, guess who's here?"

Joyce merely turned around, ignoring Reuben's presence and voice.

Reuben cast me a pleading look.

Though it was just my job, I'd always dreamed of having a daughter...

Joyce, with her doll-like appearance, was irresistibly adorable.

I couldn't help but grow fond of her, feigning distress. "Seems like Joyce doesn't want me here."

Hearing my voice, Joyce immediately spun around, her eyes lighting up at my sight. She scampered over.

She shook her head.

I squatted down to meet her gaze. "Why aren't you talking to me? Do you not like me? Is that it?"

Joyce started to shake her head again but paused, seemingly afraid I'd think she disliked me, and finally spoke, "No, I like you a lot."

"I like you too, Joyce," I said, taking her small hand. I love hearing you talk. Will you talk to me more from now on?"

Joyce heaved a grown-up sigh. "Okay."

Getting her to initiate conversation was clearly a challenge, so I had to lead. "I heard you've not been eating well lately. Are you hungry?"

Joyce glanced down, gently patting her belly. "Mhm!"

I smiled. "Shall we go have some lunch?"

Joyce nodded eagerly, then, worried I might disagree, she added emphatically, "Yes!"

Reuben visibly relaxed at this.