Chapter 156: Elliot’s warning
Bella took a leave of absence from the office to sort some matters concerning her newly discovered family. The emotional whirlwind of revelations still sat fresh in her chest, making her chest flutter with both anticipation and uncertainty.
She had known Jessica for years—trusted her even—but discovering their blood and familial connection brought a sense of fullness and fear she wasn’t prepared for.
Jessica had always been a calm and constant presence in her life, and Elliot, despite not officially acknowledging her as a goddaughter, had treated her with utmost kindness.
He had never once denied her wishes, always ensuring her needs were met without question. Looking back now, it almost felt like he’d known something all along—some subconscious part of him recognizing what lay beneath the surface.
With her thoughts on the goodness and kindness of Jessica and Elliot, she lulled herself to sleep.
The sun had barely risen above the horizon when Bella stirred. The pale rays streaked through the silk curtains, painting golden lines across the room’s marble floors.
Outside, the breeze teased the petals of early-blooming lilies, spreading their sweet fragrance into the air.
She inhaled deeply, feeling the weight of fatigue dissipate, replaced by a rare sense of rejuvenation. It was as if the morning itself whispered a promise of healing and answers.
She sat up, letting the sheets fall off her shoulders, and stretched with a long sigh. For the first time in weeks, she felt her body relax—truly relax.
Maybe it was being in a place surrounded by people who, though complex, had started to form the faint outlines of a family. Or maybe it was just the idea of finding where she truly belonged. Either way, she was grateful.
A quiet thought tickled her mind: What would it be like to fully embrace this new blood tie? She wasn’t sure yet, but she wanted to know.