The manâs voice was as deep and melodious as ever, only now it carried the weight of years and experience.
Just as Marlinie breathed a sigh of relief, she looked up in surprise at McNeil. By the time she thought to escape, he was already sitting next to her.
Escaping was no longer an option!
Marlinie opted to keep her composure, turning her gaze to the distant scenery, âDid you need something from me?â
McNeil stared deeply at her, maintaining a respectful distance, âI wanted to clarify any misunderstandings between us.â
Marlinieâs expression remained indifferent, and she still didnât look at him, âAlright, go ahead.â
With a deep sigh, McNeil began, âThere were so many misunderstandings between us in the past. You thought I was unfaithful, and I thought you had feelings for someone else. It led to a lot of conflict between us.
I can swear to you that I have never betrayed you. Our parents believed the rumors and drove you away, and my young, hot-headed nature caused me to let it happen without resisting. Iâve been looking for you ever since, never doubting your character, knowing you would never betray me!
Only recently have I discovered that it was my second wife, brought into the family behind my back, who has been creating misunderstandings between us and even sent people after you in my name.
Iâm sorry, Marlinie. I let you down!â
After listening to McNeilâs explanation, Marlinieâs face remained unchanged, âAre you done?â
McNeil nodded after a brief pause, âYes, Marlinie. Do you still have any misunderstandings about me?
If so, please tell me. I can explain!â
âThereâs nothing left!â Marlinie replied, appearing completely disinterested in him.
McNeil frowned in frustration, took a deep breath, and carefully asked, âI heard from Byran that Pearl is planning a honeymoon trip around the world with her husband. Marlinie, as Pearlâs parents, we werenât there for her as much as we should have been when she was little. So, how about we join them to help take care of the children, as a way to make up for our lack of love for her? What do you think?â
Marlinie replied, âI can go with Pearl to take care of the children, but thereâs no need for you. Pearl doesnât want to acknowledge you as her father!â
McNeil looked shameful, but wasnât ready to give up, âBut the children need a grandfatherâs love too, right? The more people who love them, the happier they will be!â
Marlinie was silent for a minute, âIâll think about it and discuss it with Pearl. For now, Iâm going to see Pearlâs children. Donât follow me!â
Marlinie calmly said these words, then stood up and walked towards the wedding reception.
âMarlinie, the Moonflowers are blooming again in our garden. Would you like to see them?â McNeil asked loudly, not giving up.
Upon hearing this, Marlinie paused in her steps but didnât move forward again.
A flicker of hope flashed in McNeilâs eyes as he smiled, stood up, and walked towards her, like he was stepping towards a fate back on track.
A month later, the Blanchet family held another celebration.
The Blanchetâs granddaughter, Veronica, was engaged to a senior from her school, which was a match made in heaven.
After the engagement party, Veronica and Moran were also going to join Theo and Ellinor on a honeymoon trip.
Balfour, as Ellinorâs brother, along with Chase and his wife, saw them off at the airport.
Theo and Ellinor, accompanied by their four little ones, Veronica and Moran, as well as Byran and his partner Ida, who insisted on joining the revelry, set off.
In addition, there was Ellinorâs mother Marlinie, who was adamant about joining, and McNeil from the Howard family.
After seeing them off at the airport, Balfour gently reminded Ellinor to be safe, warned Theo not to bully his precious sister, then said his goodbyes to the four little ones, each with a hug.
The four children cheerfully waved goodbye to their uncle, Balfour, showing their understanding.