After more than six months apart, that was all he could manage.
He couldnt ask for more. He couldnt risk making the same mistake and hurting the woman he loved again.
Shed made it clear she wanted space. All he could do was honor her wishes and keep his distance.
As Albert took a few strides, the elevator doors slid shut behind him.
The sound was barely a whisper but it weighed heavy on him. He hesitated, wanting to steal a glance back at her, but the doors were already sealed shut.
The longing to see her again gnawed at him.
He lingered for a moment before finally stepping out.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtOutside, the sun beamed down.
But he felt no warmth. Instead, a chill ran through him, leaving him feeling low even after he reached Heron.
Come evening, he found himself on the balcony, puffing away on a cigarette.
A servant hurried over, cradling the baby. She looked distressed as she spoke, Sir, your daughter seems to have a cold and a fever.
Should we take her to the hospital? Albert furrowed his brow, stubbing out the cigarette before gently feeling the babys forehead.
It was burning up.
His frown deepened as he questioned, What happened? Howd she catch a cold in this warm weather? The servant feared Albert might blame her, so she spilled the beans.
Sir, while you were away on your trip last night, Mrs. Waston showed up out of the blue. She insisted on tucking Miss Jeslyn in herself. We tried to stop her because shes never done it before, but she wouldnt budge. Said shed talk to you if anything went wrong.
Her voice trailed off nervously.
Alberts frown deepened as he heard this. He figured Daisy got worked up again because he was away on business.
She deliberately made her daughter Jeslyn sick just to get Albert to hurry home.
Was she out of her mind? Fuming, Albert stormed downstairs just as Daisy returned. Their eyes locked. Seeing the fatigue and anger etched on his face, she put on a coy smile. Youre back at last! Why the rush? That floozy just landed in Duefron, right? Its been ages since youve seen her.
Why not linger a bit longer? Daisy delicately traced the handrail with her fingers, asking, Are you worried about the baby?
Albert handed the child to the servant.
He descended the stairs slowly, delivering a sharp slap to Daisys face.
His tone was severe. Have you lost your mind? Shes your own flesh and blood. How could you do this to her? Daisy staggered from the blow.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmShe leaned against the railing for support, taking a moment to gather herself. Finally, she looked up at him and retorted, Youre the one whos driving me insane! Albert, why are you so concerned about the child? Youve never ever touched me. Shes not your kid anyway.
Albert narrowed his eyes, puzzled. What are you saying? Daisy lifted her head and let out a manic laugh. Did | say something wrong? Mr. Waston Youre terrified people wil find out about my affair, right? Are you scared theyll know she isnt yours, huh? Its fine. | wont breathe a word. | could even do away with her, and we can start fresh! Youre deranged!
Alberts face flushed with anger.
Daisy continued her tirade. Im deranged? Youre the one whos really lost it! Youre willing to care for a child that isnt yours! Albert suddenly grabbed her by the throat.
Advancing on her, fury etched on his face, he uttered each word with venom. You better keep that mouth shut in public, or lll make sure you and that old crone meet a grisly end. Trust me, you dont want to go down that road! With that said, he turned to the servant. Get everything ready. Wait in the car.
The servant was taken aback.
Shed been on the job for ages. Despite Daisy and Alberts rocky relationship and Daisys flings, she never imagined Jeslyn wasnt Alberts child! But she knew better than to meddle in her boss personal affairs.
The black car eased away.
Daisy glared as it disappeared. Blood trickled from her forehead and mouth. She was seething, her lips quivering. Even that bastard child means more to him than me.