Chapter 0119
Catherine’s birthday had arrived. Peter had checked is schedule and ensured they could leave on Friday to awold rushing. He was well aware he couldn’drive too fast anymore. They packed their bags, and Agnes prepared a small bag of desserts and fruit for the journey–Mary couldn’t go without eating. In her condition.
Mary felt more than a little nervous that day. She knew this would be the day Catherine found out about their relationship. And it wasn’t just any relationship they were already living as a couple. The thought of explaining everything to Catherine made her stomach twist in knots.
Peter entered the room and saw Mary standing by the window, lost in thought. He walked up behind her and wrapped her in a warm hug.
“Relax! Everything will be fine. You’ll see–Grandma won’t take our relationship badly. And even if she does, which I doubt, so what? We’ll just head back home.”
“Do you really think she won’t be upset? I mean, I just got divorced from-” Mary began, worry clear in
her voice.
“You have every right to rebuild your life. I love you, and that should be enough for both of us, right? Peter said, turning her to face him and planting a tender kiss on her lips. “Come on, it’s time to go. I don’t want to drive at night.”
“Thank you.”
“For what?”
“For loving me–for loving us just as we are.
“Mary, you and the baby are the biggest reasons I have to live now. How could I not love you both?”
She threw her arms around him, pulling him close and kissing him.
“Let’s go. As long as you’re with me, nothing bad can happen. I love you, Peter Palmer!”
Those words came straight from her heart. She couldn’t deny how deeply she was beginning to feel for him. Peter’s face lit up; her words made him the happiest man alive. He was winning her heart little by little, and he couldn’t imagine anything going wrong
They loaded up the car, with Agnes handing them the snacks she had prepared. Mary placed them on her lap and opened the basket, her mouth watering at the sight.
“Thank you, Agnes! This looks delicious. I doubt it’ll last long on the road!”
“Hehe, that’s the point, ma’am! You can’t skip meals in your condition.”
“I know, I know!”
“Drive safely! I’ll see you Sunday or Monday.”
“Thanks, Agnes. Take care of the house while we’re gone!”
“Of course, sir!”
Chapter 6119
After a couple of hours on the road, they arrived at the airport closest to Florence. Peter had refused to let Mary fly before, worried about her blood pressure despite the doctor’s reassurance. But this time, they took the risk.
Following a smooth flight and another drive, they reached the Palmer estate. Catherine recognized the car immediately—Peter had arrived, and the woman with him could only be Mary.
For a moment, Catherine hesitated. She wondered if Mary might refuse to come, especially since there was a chance Maximus would be there with Alexia. Catherine had reluctantly accepted Alexia’s presence at family events, knowing it was the only way to maintain peace and see her future grandchild.
Catherine hurried outside to greet them.
“My dears! How are you? How was the trip?”
“Fine, Grandma! Very smooth,” Peter answered.
“Hello, Grandma,” Mary said nervously.
“Hello, my girl! You’ve been neglecting me! You haven’t visited even once.”
“Sorry, Grandma. We’ve been a bit busy,” Peter replied, glancing at Mary.
Catherine caught the knowing look they exchanged but decided to remain quiet. She didn’t want to be intrusive and preferred to let them speak when ready
“Well, come in, come in! Don’t stay out here. Dinner will be ready soon. Why don’t you settle in? We’ll call you when everything’s ready. How about dining in the garden tonight?”
“Sounds great, Grandma!” Mary replied.
each
As the pair walked toward their respective rooms, Catherine watched them carefully. When they thought she wasn’t looking, they started playfully holding hands, confirming her suspicions.
Leopold carried Mary’s luggage while Peter handled his own. Both acted as if nothing was going on, retreating to separate rooms. But once Leopold left, Mary slipped quietly into Peter’s room, where he was already waiting behind the door. As soon as she entered, Peter caught her in his strong arms, nearly making her scream before he silenced her with a kiss.
“Shh! They’ll hear us!” Peter whispered.
“You scared me!” Mary scolded, her cheeks flushed.
“Come on, let’s lie down for a bit,” Peter said, tugging her toward the bed.
“They’ll find us,” Mary protested, pulling away.
“We’re just going to nap! Please, come on,” Peter pleaded.
“Fine, but if we get caught, you’re explaining everything.”
“Yes, yes! Come here,” Peter said, pulling her onto the bed with one arm.
After some cuddling, she fell asleep in his arms as he stroked her hair. Peter soon drifted off as well.
+25 BONUS
Chapter 0119
A couple of hours later, Catherine noticed neither of them had come downstairs. She decided to investigate, first checking Mary’s room. Finding it empty, she wondered if Mary might be in the garden. Then she went to Peter’s room. Knocking yielded no response, so she opened the door and saw a scene she hadn’t expected. The two were sound asleep, wrapped in each other’s arms.
The sight confirmed her suspicions, Something was definitely going on between them, and it wasn’t just friendship. Smiling, she quietly closed the door. They would have to explain themselves eventually.
Meanwhile, Leonard approached Catherine downstalt
“Mom, have you seen Peter? I saw his car. I know he’s here, and I won’t miss the chance to speak with him.”
“Yes, son, he’s here, but he’s in his room and probably won’t come out until dinner. You’ll have time to talk to him later.”
“He’s in his room?
“Yes, but don’t bother him right now!” Catherine said with a knowing wink
Leonard understood and didn’t press further.
“Son, I think Peter will have some big news for us soon!‘
“What do you mean?”
“Oh, you’ll see. Trust me,” Catherine said, a mischievous smile on her lips. “Now, come have tea with me!”
