Chapter 1790
When Love Comes Late
Noting Flossieâs hesitation, Edmund offered reassurance by patting her shoulder and advising, âTake your time responding.
I still have work to wrap up in Seamarsh anyway.
Use this time to contemplate your decision thoughtfully.
â
Flossie nodded in acknowledgment.
Checking his watch, Edmund suggested, âWhy donât you come home with me for some rest? Itâs not ideal to stay at someone elseâs place.
â
Colin considered objecting but refrained, realizing it wasnât his place to do so.
He glanced at Flossie instead.
After a brief pause, Flossie declined, âIâm still receiving treatment.
Itâs best for me to remain here for now.
â
She longed for a peaceful rest.
The sight of Edmund inevitably triggered memories of Benny within her.
Colin let out a sigh of relief, his face softening into a faint smile.
Concerned about Flossieâs fatigue, Edmund opted not to press her.
He advised, âTake your time to consider coming with me.
If you decide, feel free to reach out.
Iâll handle all arrangements.
â
âAlright,â Flossie responded in agreement.
Edmund didnât linger for long.
Colin returned to the room after seeing Edmund off.
Flossie opted not to return to sleep.
Instead, she remained seated on the bed, clutching a partially consumed glass of water.
Her countenance was somber, her gaze directed downward.
Having lingered outside the door, Colin eventually entered the room.
âAre you considering leaving with your father?â he inquired.
Flossie grasped the implication, yet she struggled to formulate a response.
Shifting the conversation, she expressed gratitude.
âI apologize for the inconvenience due to my illness.
Your assistance has been invaluable.
I promise to treat you to dinner once Iâm fully recovered.
â
A furrow appeared on Colinâs brow.
He found her formality uncomfortable.
Colin, mindful of Flossieâs recent experiences, worried that she might be more guarded.
He believed that clarity was crucial for any opportunity between them.
Upon reflection, he earnestly expressed, âBeing with you brings me immense joy.
I earnestly ask for an opportunity to care for you.
â
Flossie was taken aback, her mouth slightly agape, as Colin unexpectedly requested an opportunity from her in that moment.
She avoided his intense gaze and quipped playfully, âAre you implying that you want me to fall ill frequently?â
He observed her avoiding eye contact and felt a twinge of disappointment, yet he was determined to clarify his intentions.
âYou know I didnât mean it like thatâ¦â
Flossie chose not to engage further.
She closed her eyes wearily, stating, âColin, Iâm exhausted.
I need to rest.
â
Feeling a bitter pang in his heart, he spoke in a raspy voice.
âIâll step out for now.
Rest well.
â