“Changing feelings are only human, but loyalty-that’s a choice, a deliberate act.” These words lingered in her mind.
Marriage, Corrine realized, was never meant to be a prison or an unyielding chain.
“Love is like a journey,” Evelyn continued, her voice softening into a reflective tone.
“Two people can walk together, but either can choose to part ways along the road. One day, you’ll find someone who wants to travel all the way to the same destination with you.”
Evelyn reached out, her fingers gently brushing against Corrine’s hollow cheek.
“Good girl, remember, we live for ourselves-not for anyone else. Letting love trap you would betray your true, independent nature.”
Corrine looked at her, startled by the clarity in Evelyn’s words. Then, a warm smile broke across her face
“Thank you for that.”
Evelyn chuckled heartily.
“You came to keep me company, so I should be thanking you.”
Time drifted on, and soon Evelyn couldn’t suppress a quiet yawn.
Seeing this, Corrine softened, guilt tinging her voice.
“I’ve gone on too long, haven’t I? You’ve just come out of the hospital. You really need to rest.” She stood, intending to take her leave, but Evelyn’s hand shot out, gripping hers tightly.
“It’s not often you sit down and talk with me,” Evelyn said, her tone almost pleading.
“Now that you’re here, why not stay for dinner? Keep this old woman company a little longer.”
Evelyn didn’t let her finish.
“I know, I know. I’m just an old woman who must seem like a nuisance to you young folks. Always so busy, day and night, with no time to spare, not even for a meal.”
She glanced at Corrine with a forlorn expression before lowering her gaze, her sigh heavy with melancholy.
“But it’s fine. If you want to leave, just go. I’ve been alone for years. I’m used to it.”
Corrine hesitated, guilt pricking her like needles. Her thoughts wandered to her grandfather, who used to voice the same laments about being left alone. She hadn’t been there for him all these years. Had he also managed the heavy mantle of the Ford family on his own, with no one by his side?
Finally, Corrine sighed, giving in.
“Fine. I’ll stay. But you have to promise to rest for a while first.”
Evelyn’s face lit up instantly.
“Alright, alright! But don’t you go back on your word!”
Faced with Evelyn’s almost childlike stubbornness, Corrine laughed softly.
“I wouldn’t dare.”
After helping Evelyn to her bedroom, Corrine was shown to a guest room by a maid.
The space was styled in muted tones of black and white, exuding an air of quiet sophistication while feeling slightly cold.
Corrine took in the minimalistic furnishings, her senses picking up on the faint, soothing scent of fir that lingered in the air.
Her bare feet sank into the plush wool carpet as she crossed the room to the window.
The view beyond was breathtaking-an unobstructed panorama of the estate’s garden. Every detail of the landscape was a testament to the owner’s refined taste and meticulous care.
As she was lost in contemplation, the phone on the bed rang. There was no need to wonder who would be calling at this hour.
Corrine’s fingers danced across the screen as she accepted the call.
“Corrine, shouldn’t you be in the ward?” Karina’s concerned voice flowed from the speaker, reaching Corrine’s attentive ears. With a soft smile, Corrine responded, “I’ve stepped out and won’t be back for a while. Could you let the doctor know for me?”
“Sure, as long as you’re safe.” Karina let out a relieved sigh.
“I just talked to the doctor, and he mentioned you could complete the discharge papers tomorrow.”
“That works for me,” Corrine responded.
Karina paused, then laughed softly.
“A new commission came into my studio. The client is from the Seymour family; she has specifically asked for you to handle the design.”
Karina was set to inherit her father’s business and the Brooks family fortune, but her real passion lay in fashion design. She had established a luxury boutique called Redamancy five years ago, which, within just half a year, became a sensation in the fashion scene, quickly achieving fame. Today, it had become a sought-after brand among the wealthy, with its value surpassing a hundred million.
Designs by Corry were in high demand, treasured like rare jewels by socialites. Despite numerous offers from other fashion brands seeking her talents, Corry chose to remain a mystery, leading to the gradual end of such pursuits. After contemplating, Corrine responded smoothly, “I’ll handle it, but once I return to the Ford family, I’ll be swamped with responsibilities. It might take a little longer for the new design.”
“That’s fine. The client said she’s willing to wait as long as you agree. She’s been dreaming of a wedding dress from you for her big day.” Karina’s voice brimmed with excitement and hope.
“Darling, I can’t wait for you to lead us back to the top.”
A warm smile spread across Corrine’s face.
“Then let’s aim for the top together.”
After the call, Corrine thought about her early dreams of designing wedding dresses, her smile fading at the memory. She had once imagined herself in her creations, approaching Bruce at the altar. Yet, life had other plans, offering heartache instead of happiness.
Her deepest regret was giving her all to someone who never cared.
Before she could sink deeper into her reflections, a sudden crash disrupted the silence. It sounded as though something had broken. Without a moment’s delay, Corrine stepped outside.
There, Penny Glyn, a maid, was on her knees, cautiously picking up pieces of broken ceramic.
“Miss Holland,” Penny looked up with a sheepish grin.
“My apologies. It seems my hands aren’t as steady as they used to be.”
“Not to worry.” Corrine knelt beside her, beginning to help.
“Let’s clean this up together.”
Penny gasped, touched by Corrine’s kindness.
“Oh, you shouldn’t trouble yourself. I’ve got this. Be careful-the shards are sharp.”
Corrine offered a soft smile.
“Don’t worry, I’ll be careful.”
As Corrine knelt to gather the broken pieces, Penny’s heart warmed visibly. It became clear to her why Evelyn held Corrine in such high esteem.
Years at Evelyn’s side had shown Penny many cunning individuals, and she had become skilled at reading their motives. Yet, Corrine stood apart from those who aspired to join the Hopkins family through marriage. She had no hidden motives, only a calm composure that those women didn’t have. Her demeanor showed honesty and natural grace, qualities that were both rare and valued
With the cleanup nearly complete, Penny took the shards from Corrine and asked politely, “Miss Holland, are there any foods you prefer to avoid?”
New Book: Back Home to Marry Off Myself
Loredana’s father left the family for his mistress, leaving them to fend for themselves abroad. When life was at its toughest, her father showed up with “good news” after 8 years of absence: To marry off Loredana to a paralyzed son of the wealthy Mendelsohn family.