LOVE'S QUAGMIRE [18+]

Chapter 55: James

Daphne's POV~

I sat at the dining table, watching Catherine serve breakfast even though I'd already told her I'd handle it myself. But she just waved me off, insisting I sit and relax. She seemed...extra cheerful today, smiling from ear to ear as she moved around the table.

I picked up my fork, glancing over at her with a soft smile. "You look happy today?" I asked, noticing the way her cheeks turned pink.

Her smile only grew, and she looked down, almost shyly, her face a shade I'd never really seen before. I couldn't help but feel a little lighter seeing her like that. 

Catherine didn't have much family to lean on—actually, none at all—and she'd been working here for so long, taking care of everything without ever realizing this was, in some way, her own place, her own family.

She deserved to be happy, more than anyone I knew. But as that thought settled, a darker one crept in. One day, she'd learn the truth, and her heart... her delicate heart would shatter. And I didn't know if she'd ever be able to piece it back together.

She poured juice into my glass, still slightly pink, glancing at me like she was unsure if she should say something or keep it to herself. I nudged her gently, a little curious now. "Come on, Cat," I urged with a smile. "Spill it."

She hesitated, but her eyes sparkled in a way I hadn't seen in a while. Just for now, I wanted her to have this little bubble of happiness, untouched.

"You can trust me," she said, biting her lip, looking shy as she added, "Today I'm gonna see him."

"See who?" I asked, my brow furrowed. But before she could reply, I heard footsteps.

 I turned to see Zephyr striding toward us, his sleeves rolled up, revealing those veiny, tattooed arms. He was adjusting his flashy Philippe Patek watch, looking all serious.

Catherine caught his eye and quickly slipped away, leaving us alone. He came towards me with a smile, bent down on one knee, and took my hand, his gaze fixed on the diamond-studded wedding band that sparkled on my finger.

 A smirk played on his lips as he looked up at me. "Butterfly, I really don't wanna leave you but I don't have a choice, take care of yourself and our little bean. Remember what I said: don't go out anywhere." His tone was firm, and I just nodded. 

"That's my girl," he said softly, pecking my lips.

Then, he leaned in closer, his eyes sparkled with excitement as he said, "Well, there's a surprise I have planned for my babies." He glanced at me and then down at my stomach. 

 "We're leaving for New York next week."

My eyes slightly widened at the news, and excitement bubbled up inside me, but I held it back, keeping my expression neutral. 

He cupped my cheeks with his big hands, and I felt a rush of warmth. "I know my wifey has been craving this for so long. You haven't seen your parents in months, and your wish is my command. I want you to be happy in every possible way," he said softly. "So, start packing a bit with Catherine and Miss Thornfield."

I nodded, and he stood up, adjusting his pants and slipping on his trench coat.

He kissed my forehead gently and patted my cheeks softly. "I'll leave now, and make sure to take your meds on time," he said, giving me a serious look.

 I nodded as he walked away.

Phew, he's finally gone.

Just thinking about heading back home makes me giddy. It's my first time staying away from New York City, and the idea of it stirs up all sorts of emotions.