Chapter 41: Sir GayleThe carriage rolled steadily through the dark, narrow streets. The wooden wheels clattered softly against the cobblestones. Inside, Isabel sat in silence while her hands rested on her lap. Hours passed, and the carriage gradually slowed to a stop. The coachman opened the door, and Isabel took a deep breath before stepping out onto the familiar streets of the slums where she had grown up. The cold air bit at her cheeks, but it was a welcome sensation, grounding her in the present.As her feet touched the ground, the first snowflakes of the season began to fall, drifting gently from the sky and settling on her shoulders and hair. Isabel paused noticing it as a gasp escaped her lips, realizing what was happening. Almost immediately, Isabel looked up, watching the delicate flakes swirl and dance in the air. The sight filled her with different emotions. Her eyes wandered around the streets, taking in the rundown houses and the narrow alleyways. She remembered playi

Chapter 43: Morning VisitorThe next morning arrived with the sounds of crunching and pounding outside Teressa's home, that jolted her from sleep. Alarmed, she hastily wrapped her old shawl around herself and hurried to the door.But the sight that greeted her upon opening the door left her utterly shocked.There, in the middle of the cold of winter, stood Sir Gayle, shirtless, vigorously chopping wood."My goodness, young man! What are you doing? You'll catch your death out here!" Teressa exclaimed in genuine concern, rushing back inside to rouse Isabel from her sleep."Isabel! Wake up, dear!"Isabel's eyes fluttered open slowly while her mother's form was still blurry before her."Yes, mother?" she mumbled sleepily."Your... husband— I mean... that young man! The physician is outside chopping firewood in the snow!" Teressa relayed, her worry evident in her tone."Mother, let him be. He's accustomed to such tasks," Isabel replied groggily, the reality of her situation still sinking i

Chapter 45: The InvitationWhen they reached the house, Isabel knocked on the door, which soon opened to reveal a pleasantly surprised Mrs. Hawthorne. "Isabel! Tristan! What brings you here?" she asked, stepping aside to let them in.Isabel smiled warmly. "I just wanted to talk to you about a few things, Mrs. Hawthorne. Thank you for seeing us on such short notice."Mrs. Hawthorne waved her hand dismissively. "Nonsense, dear. You’re always welcome here. Come in, both of you, and let’s sit by the fire."As they settled by the fire, Isabel took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts. "Mrs. Hawthorne, I wanted to thank you for taking such good care of my mother while I was gone. It means more to me than I can express."Mrs. Hawthorne reached out and patted Isabel’s hand. "Oh, Isabel, it was no trouble at all. Your mother is a dear friend, and I was happy to help. How is she faring now?""She’s doing much better, thanks to you. Your kindness has been a great comfort to her," Isabel replied

Chapter 47: Wish it was not pretendThe first light of dawn crept through the curtains as Tristan stirred from his sleep. With careful movements, he slipped out of bed, being mindful not to disturb Isabel, who still slept soundly beside him.As he dressed quietly, Tristan couldn't shake the nervousness that coursed through him. Today was the day he would make the final preparations for their wedding. With each button fastened and each shoelace tied, he felt a sense of anticipation building within him.He left a gentle kiss on Isabel's forehead as he paused for a moment to admire her peaceful expression before quietly slipping out of the room. He made his way down the hallway, the floorboards creaking softly beneath his feet as he descended the stairs.When he reached the bottom, he was startled by Teressa's presence, and she was equally surprised to see him."What? Where are you off to?" she asked, lifting a basin filled with water."Mother-in-law," he greeted, "I am heading to the ne

Chapter 49: Mrs. GayleThe village celebrated a humble reception for the newlyweds. Mrs. Hawthorne danced with infectious energy as Teressa clapped her hands, encouraging everyone to join in with the lively music.Despite the vibrant atmosphere of music, celebration, and singing, Isabel remained unusually quiet throughout the festivities. Tristan noticed her detachment almost immediately."Isabel...?" he called out gently, hoping to catch her attention.Isabel seemed lost in her own thoughts, her eyes distant. Concerned, Tristan reached out to hold her hand, but her reaction shocked him—she immediately slapped his hand away, a reflexive action that left them both stunned."I... I am sorry. I did not mean to do that," Isabel quickly apologized, avoiding his gaze.Tristan's brow furrowed with worry. He didn't know what was troubling her and reached out again, only for Isabel to abruptly stand from her seat, obviously avoiding him."I feel cold. Can I go inside?" she asked. But before Tr