Chapter 1046



Concerned for Elma’s well-being, Kallie had eventually given in and tried to soothe her with food.

Worried that Elma might overreact again, Sophie softened her voice.

“Tell me about your plan, and I might consider it.”

Elma chuckled and murmured her plan into Sophie’s ear.

The concern in Sophie’s eyes dissolved into a blend of amusement and appreciation as she lightly tapped Elma’s forehead.

“Elma, you truly are the cleverest child. Don’t worry, your plan will surely succeed.”

That night, a servant abruptly awakened Jake, reporting that Elma had suffered a nightmare and was crying incessantly upon waking.

As Jake hastened toward Elma’s room, he queried the servant walking alongside him, “Where’s Lacey? Why did you choose not to summon her?”

With a troubled look, the servant answered, “Elma wouldn’t have it. She insisted on seeing only you and Kallie. She’s refusing her medicine unless you two are there.”

Jake’s expression grew stern, though he remained silent. This worried the servant deeply. All who knew Jake were aware of his limited patience, particularly with children. Elma, since moving in, seldom had outbursts or tears.

Despite her illness, Elma was usually rational, choosing to express her deeper feelings only in Kallie’s presence, which showed she hadn’t quite warmed up to Jake. This persistence was new for her.

Jake wasn’t angry but rather felt an unfamiliar stir of emotions. He was frustrated with Elma’s mulish stance, her refusal to take medicine seemingly a tactic to garner attention.

Attention. Didn’t she realize that her well-being was paramount? Yet, what could he do? She was his youngest child, and he felt compelled to be more lenient with her.

Jake quickened his steps with a soft sigh and soon arrived at Elma’s room. Surprisingly, someone had gotten there before him. As Jake neared the door, Elma’s softened cries filtered through, mingled with soothing whispers.

“Don’t cry, Elma. You look like a little lost kitten. Were you scared? It’s okay. Mommy’s here. Are you still frightened? Let me hold you. Your forehead is all sweaty. Should I change your clothes?”

Kallie’s voice was gentle as she comforted Elma, cradling her on her lap and tenderly patting Elma’s back. Kallie’s comforting actions were just instinctive.

This realization struck Kallie profoundly. Elma was truly her child. Nestled in Kallie’s warm embrace, Elma felt an authentic need to cry. Though her initial sobs seemed exaggerated, real tears began to flow again.

Kallie, startled by the sudden tears, quickly dabbed at Elma’s cheeks.

“Did I do something wrong?” she asked, her face etched with concern.

Elma shook her head, her voice wavering.

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