Chapter 285: The Third Lifetime, Adele. (11)
With a subtle nod, Holden signaled the guards to step aside, allowing the carriage to pass through. As it came to a halt, he approached with a graceful ease, his presence commanding respect. He opened the carriage door and extended a hand to help Adele down.
Adele took his hand, noticing how gentle yet firm his grip was. As her feet touched the ground, she couldn’t help but smile, a gesture that felt surprisingly natural despite the tumult of emotions within her.
"You have a lovely smile," Holden remarked, his voice soft yet laced with something deeper. "It reminds me of Sharon’s."
Adele’s smile faltered slightly at his words. "Sharon?" she asked, curiosity piqued.
Holden’s expression softened, the sadness in his eyes becoming more apparent. "She was... my late lover," he explained, a wistful note in his tone.
Adele’s heart ached for him, sensing the pain that lingered beneath his composed exterior. "I am so sorry, Holden," she said sincerely, her voice gentle.
Holden gave her a small, appreciative nod. "Thank you," he replied quietly. There was a moment of silence, heavy with unspoken memories, before he gestured towards the path leading to the gardens. "Come, I will take you to wait for Theodore."
As they walked together, Adele couldn’t help but steal glances at Holden, wondering about the depth of his sorrow and the story behind it. He guided her with the same care and respect he had shown from the moment he arrived, but she could sense that there was much more to this man than met the eye.
She would see him in balls and parties before but they never talked.
The garden came into view, a serene haven with neatly arranged flower beds, elegant stone paths, and the soft hum of nature all around. Holden led her to a secluded bench, its position offering a view of the garden in full bloom.
"You can wait here. Theodore will be with you shortly," Holden said, his voice holding a hint of warmth as he offered her a reassuring smile.