Chapter 245: The Truth He Brought Home
Inside the quiet building, Darcy stared at the scene before him in bewilderment.
He swallowed hard, moistening his dry lips.
He stepped forward slowly. "Hello, ma’am," he said politely, keeping his voice steady despite the odd sensation in his chest.
Zhou Ruyan glanced at him for a second before her lips curled gently. "Oh, how rude of me," she said. "Hello, dear. Come closer. This old lady’s eyesight is not what it used to be."
Darcy approached with careful steps. The light brightened his features as he moved, his sharp profile now clearly visible under the warm glow of the lamps. The way he held himself spoke of dignity.
Zhou Ruyan followed his every movement.
Micah straightened himself with effort and shifted to sit on the couch beside Zhou Ruyan. His body moved stiffly, like every joint hurt. He swallowed the lump in his throat and patted the empty space beside him. "Sit down," he said to Darcy. "Grandma, this is my friend, Darcy Edwood. The one I told you about."
Darcy nodded politely and sat stiffly beside Micah, his back straight and hands clasped neatly in his lap. "Nice to meet you."
Zhou Ruyan’s gaze didn’t waver. "It’s the first time Micah has brought a friend here."
"It’s my honour, then," Darcy replied with a soft smile, casting a glance toward Micah.
But Micah didn’t meet his eyes. His glasses caught the light, hiding his expression, and his gaze remained low, distant. Like he was somewhere else. Like he couldn’t hear their conversation. Trapped in a sealed place.
Zhou Ruyan’s sharp eyes noticed. She shifted slightly and reached for the teapot on the table in front of them. Her hand, delicate but worn with age, trembled as she tried to lift it.