When Charlie saw Maggie walk into the study, his heart sank. The past and present romantic interests of Aldrich, and the collision with Marvin’s former mate, had turned this room into a turbulent battlefield. However, Charlie owed his life to Maggie, so refusing her entry into the study was impossible.
Maggie’s appearance stunned Grace, and the room fell into a profound silence. It was as if long-buried memories were resurfacing, stirring a mix of fear and an inexplicable attraction within Grace.
Aldrich quickly rose from his seat and rushed over to support Maggie. “It’s late, my dear. You should be resting for the sake of the little ones,” he said, his voice laced with concern.
Maggie shook her head. She had stood outside for a while, and her legs felt a bit sore. Aldrich swiftly brought over a soft chair and helped Maggie sit down. “You shouldn’t be doing this. I’m worried about you,” he said gently.
“It’s alright; I just wanted to see if there’s anything I can do for everyone,” Maggie tried to explain, but when she looked at Grace and Marvin, she sensed an awkward tension in the room.
Grace stood quietly, observing the situation with curiosity. She had known Aldrich for many years, but witnessing his vulnerability was a new experience. Maggie’s presence had brought about a profound change in him.
She had to admit that Aldrich’s affection and warmth toward Maggie were genuine, and their interaction was so sweet and natural. Compared to her own relationship with Aldrich, she felt more like a comrade than an affectionate partner.
A pang of pain flashed in Grace’s eyes, transmitting the heavy emotions to Marvin once again. He wanted to step forward and embrace Grace but lacked the courage. They seemed trapped in their shared sorrow, unable to break free.
“Hello, Grace. I’m Maggie Nelson, and I hope to become a part of your family,” Maggie initiated the conversation with Grace.
This made Grace feel even more ashamed. Maggie’s brightness and kindness made her look like a mouse in the dark world. Grace’s current situation was terrible, and Maggie had already replaced her as the new mistress of Barrett Manor. It was all too much for the once-proud Grace.
Grace managed a small smile as she looked at Marvin. “I’ve said my goodbyes. Farewell, and please don’t come looking for me again.”
“No!” Marvin held onto Grace’s arm firmly, refusing to let go. “Are you abandoning me? Don’t you want to know how I’ve been living in the darkness since you left? Grace, I love you deeply. We will find a way to heal you. You can’t give up…”
“I’ve lived in pain and darkness for so long; I have no hope for a better life. Marvin, just consider old Grace dead!” Grace announced in anguish. “Let go!”
Tears welled up in her eyes, and Marvin tasted the bitterness in his mouth. He shook his head frantically. “This time I’m brave. Why don’t you be a bit braver, Grace? I’m begging you; trust me. Everything will get better!”
“Because this is my retribution! I betrayed the moon goddess for you, and I deserve this miserable fate! Let go!”
“No!” Marvin held Grace tightly.
“No!” Maggie couldn’t bear to watch any longer. She couldn’t let this couple suffer anymore.
Maggie turned her attention to Grace, her voice filled with determination. “I can try to help Grace recover.”
Marvin and Grace exchanged incredulous glances, their eyes widening in disbelief. “How is that possible? Do you think you’re the moon goddess?” Only Aldrich and Charlie, aware of Maggie’s extraordinary abilities, felt a surge of excitement and hope. Their expressions revealed their astonishment.
Aldrich stepped forward, his voice steady, filled with anticipation. “We’ve already witnessed Maggie’s abilities. Let’s trust that she can heal Grace.”
Charlie nodded in agreement, his gaze fixed firmly on Maggie. “We have full faith in you, Maggie. We believe in your abilities.”
Marvin and Grace hesitated, their doubts evident in their uncertain gazes. The idea of Maggie intervening to help Grace seemed incredible, but the glimmer of hope in Aldrich and Charlie’s eyes provided some comfort.
In Marvin’s mind, there was one crucial piece of information: Grace could be saved. The flame of hope ignited within him, illuminating his entire life. His spirit and aura infected everyone in the room, and he said, “Grace, give it a try. Aldrich and Thomas believe that Maggie has this ability, and perhaps Maggie is our salvation.”
Grace pondered for a moment before mustering the courage to speak. “Alright, Maggie. If you believe there’s a chance, we are willing to give it a try.”
Aldrich turned to Charlie, his voice filled with determination. “Charlie, reinforce the security measures around Barrett Manor, especially near the study. No one should approach without proper clearance, regardless of what they hear.”
“I understand; security is in my hands!” Charlie took charge immediately.
Maggie reached into her pocket and pulled out a small box. When she opened it, the Energy bead emitted a shimmering white light. As the ethereal light bathed the entire room, the group watched in awe, their anticipation flowing through their veins. Maggie guided Grace to sit cross-legged on the floor and handed her an Energy bead.
Maggie looked at Grace with determination and compassion in her eyes. Her voice was gentle yet resolute as she warned Grace about the potential pain she might endure during this process. “Grace, it’s crucial for you to understand that this journey might not be easy. There may be moments of discomfort, but I need to know if you have the strength to endure it.”
Grace met Maggie’s resolute gaze, her eyes filled with determination. She nodded and spoke firmly, “Maggie, I’m prepared to face anything that comes my way. If it means finding a cure, I’m willing to endure any pain or hardship. Nothing will stop me on this path.”
Maggie tightened her grip on Grace’s hand, offering her silent comfort. A profound sense of trust had formed between them, making Grace believe in her own resilience. Maggie felt Grace’s unwavering courage and the blazing determination within her.
In that moment, an unspoken consensus was reached between them, a bond of trust and resilience that needed no words. Grace drew strength from Maggie’s touch, feeling a resolute determination coursing through her veins.
Their hands remained tightly interlocked, symbolizing the connection between them. The room fell into a deep silence, with everyone in awe of Grace’s courage. Maggie knew she had to give it her all, using her power to guide Grace through this transformative process.
Their gazes met, and an unspoken understanding passed between them. In that moment, Maggie’s conviction aligned with Grace’s unwavering determination. They were ready to face the challenges of the future, knowing they would overcome any obstacles on the path ahead together.