By morning, Brantleyâs fever had subsided.
Only then did Elissa call Raphael to update him on the situation.
Raphael was quiet on the phone for a while before suggesting, âMaybe I should drop the project.
I canât just leave you on your own in Duefron.â
But Elissa was adamant.
She said quietly but resolutely, âRaphael, you know the effort it took to secure this project.
Itâs not only about the profit but also the partnership with Evans Group.
With their support, your future will be much smoother.
Without this project, who else would take a chance to collaborate with you?â
Her words were harsh but true.
Raphael remained silent.
Elissa lowered her voice again and said in a whisper, âThe money I have here and the funds my Dad left for Brantley should cover our expenses for the rest of our lives, even if you never earn another dime! But thatâs not what you want for us, for yourself.
Raphael, have you forgotten why you decided to rebuild your career? If you think itâs not important anymore, then come back⦠just be sure you wonât regret it later.â
Raphael was deeply touched by Elissaâs words.
âElissaâ¦â
Elissaâs voice quivered slightly.
âIâm not chasing after riches.
My concern is that without ambition, you wonât achieve anything or find happiness ever again.
You say you donât want me to struggle alongside you, but I also donât want to be a burden to you! Raphael, Iâm capable of looking after myself and Brantley too,â she said with conviction.
She thought back to her own past vulnerabilities.
These experiences had strengthened her, instilling a confidence to tackle any challenge head-on.
She was committed to supporting him and didnât want to just sit at home waiting for him to return and look after her.
Raphael was deeply moved by Elissaâs heartfelt words.
He softly agreed and promised to make time for a visit.
He urged Brantley to eat healthily, fall sick less, and try not to be too much trouble for Elissa.
Brantley nodded his agreement and showed great affection towards him.
Raphael ended the call.
He looked at himself in the mirror and noticed a few grey hairs.
He found it amusing to think he had a brother-in-law as young as Brantley.
Once Brantley was better, Elissa took him back home.
This little ordeal had finally passed.
During lunch, the maid appeared somewhat anxious and said, âMrs.
Jones, thereâs something I need to discuss with you⦠A relative of mine just had a baby and needs some help, so I might not be able to stay on here.â
Elissa grasped the situation immediately.
She sensed the maid found the job overwhelming and likely had another job lined up.
She chewed her food slowly, paused to think, and then said, âWe can talk about your pay, and despite not too much, I can give you a raise.
I know youâre here mainly to take care of me and my baby.
You see, Brantley is not constantly sick, so he doesnât require constant attention.â
The maid wiped her hands with a napkin.
After a moment, she replied, âMrs.
Jones, Iâm really sorry, but I need to be with my family.â