Once again, it was 0825, a significant time for Ulric.
Rosalind couldn’t fathom the depths of Ulric’s love for Sirena.
The image of such a serious, rigid, and seemingly unfeeling person going to great lengths for love seemed unimaginable. From setting passwords to getting tattoos and writing love letters, Ulric had undertaken actions that individually wouldn’t be associated with him, yet he did them all for Sirena.
Rosalind refrained from reading the letter she had stumbled upon, silently returning it to its place along with the book.
Slowly, she walked out of the study, feeling that she had trespassed on Ulric’s personal domain. It was his business, and she had no right to pry, think, or feel anything about it.
After all, she was just a hired substitute without such privileges.
…
Ulric left the hospital as soon as Johnny arrived to take over. Sitting in the car, he didn’t immediately start the engine. Instead, he dialed his mother’s number.
“Ulric, have you finished work?”
It was already late due to the time difference with his mother’s location.
“Yes.” Ulric reclined in his seat, massaging his temples. “I heard from Sirena that you’re planning to return to the country?”
“Yes! It coincides with her birthday and surgery. I want to be there for her.” His mother’s voice carried a gentle tone, as if Sirena were already considered family.
However, Ulric knew his mother’s true nature was not as others perceived.
She had a strong desire for control.
“It’s not a major surgery. I just came from the hospital. Your health isn’t in good condition, and the doctor advised you to rest more and avoid long-distance travel.”
“It’s been a long time since I’ve been back to the country. This time, I plan to stay for a while and recuperate there. Besides, I’ll have the chance to see you and Sirena more often.”
“Mom, please prioritize your health before worrying about these matters.”
Initially, Ulric had intended for his mother to gradually become acquainted with Rosalind, to meet her and get to know her better. But if his mother suddenly returned now, it wouldn’t be long before their marriage could no longer be kept a secret.
“It seems like you don’t want me to go back?” His mother sensed something in his tone and asked, “Did you have a disagreement with Sirena? You two-”
“We maintain a private friendship while being superiors at work. There’s no disagreement,” he interrupted, not wanting his mother to conjure up further speculations. “Once I’m finished with my work here, I’ll come to see you.”
He had initially planned to bring Rosalind along, but unexpectedly, Sirena had disrupted his plans.
“You’re already exhausted from work. I’ll come back instead. I’ve already purchased the ticket. I even asked Sirena not to tell you, intending to surprise you, but she couldn’t keep it to herself!”
His mother chuckled, “After you two get married, her love for you will surely deepen.”
“…”
“Alright, it’s almost midnight here. I need to rest. Goodnight, my son.”
With that, she ended the call.
Ulric felt his headache intensify.
It appeared that his mother’s return was inevitable. He could only try to avoid any issues that might upset her and find an opportunity to send her back at a later time.
He placed his phone on the passenger seat and started the car, driving back to Easthaven Bay as as possible.
Upon entering the house, he noticed Rosalind lying motionless on the table in the living room, seemingly asleep.
Quietly, Ulric approached her and retrieved a blanket from the sofa to cover her.
The act of covering her stirred Rosalind awake.
“You’re back so early?!”