Under a Dimmed Sun [UNCENSORED]

SII: Chapter LVIII: Welcome-Home

In the garden patio of Mohn Estate, the soft rays of the afternoon sun filtered through the lush greenery, casting a warm, golden light over the small gathering. The air was filled with the scent of blooming flowers, mingling with the faint aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries laid out on a simple wooden table.

Alice, dressed in a modest gown, her hair loosely tied back, smiled as she adjusted the ribbons on Isabel's dress. Isabel, now nine years old, beamed with excitement, her eyes bright with joy. The young girl's laughter echoed softly through the garden as she twirled around, the pale blue fabric of her dress catching the light.

Cateline handed the girl a gift. "For you, Isabel," she said with a warm smile, her voice soft and nurturing. Isabel eagerly holds the present, revealing a delicate, hand-carved wooden doll. Her face lit up with delight as she clutched the doll to her chest.

Alice, who had been quietly watching, leaned in and placed a gentle kiss on Isabel's forehead. "Happy birthday, my dear baby," she whispered, her voice filled with affection. "May this year bring you even more happiness."

Isabel grinned, her eyes sparkling with gratitude. "Thank you, Mama, Auntie. This is the best birthday ever!"

As the small, private celebration continued, Alice glanced toward the entrance of the garden. The absence of Mohn's men, all gone to the capital of Navarre for quite some time, weighed heavily on her heart. But for now, she focused on the moment, on Isabel's happiness, and on the peaceful serenity of the garden. The estate, usually bustling with activity, felt quieter these days, yet the bond between those who remained grew stronger, filled with an unspoken understanding of the challenges that lay ahead.

The sound of a gentle breeze rustling the leaves brought Alice's attention back to the present. She caught Isabel's eye and smiled, determined to make this day special, despite the uncertainty that surrounded them all.

While the men were gone, Albert's childhood studymate, a nobleman named Jonathan, had taken on the role of temporary secretary at Mohn Estate. With Albert and the other men away at Navarre's capital, the responsibility of managing the estate's affairs fell to Jonathan. Though still young, he carried himself with a quiet confidence, his sharp mind and familiarity with Albert's methods making him well-suited for the task. His presence brought a sense of stability to the estate, ensuring that its operations continued smoothly in the absence of its lords.

Alice felt a pair of strong hands gently cover her eyes from behind, the touch familiar yet unexpected. Alice: "Who... are you?" she asked, her heart quickening.

Behind her, Cateline and Isabel giggled, their delight giving away the identity of the mysterious figure.

Alice: "Albert?! You came home?" Alice's voice was filled with a mix of surprise and relief as she turned to face him.

Albert smiled warmly at the three of them. "How are you doing, ladies? Are you all having fun without me now?"

Isabel, unable to contain her excitement, ran toward Albert and threw her arms around him. Albert lifted her up effortlessly, holding her high as she laughed with pure joy. "Papa!" she exclaimed.

Albert chuckled softly, bringing her closer. "Shh, not so loud," he said, a playful tone in his voice. "You need to call me brother in public, remember?"

Isabel grinned, her eyes sparkling. "Brother!" she corrected herself, still holding onto him tightly.

Cateline watched them with a teasing smile. "Oh no, now you're playing daddy games with her," she said, shaking her head in mock disapproval. "She doesn't even look like anyone in this house."

Albert pressed a gentle kiss to Isabel's cheek, his voice filled with affection. "She's mine, given from God himself."

Isabel laughed, her small arms wrapping around Albert's head as she hugged him close. The scene was one of warmth and love, a rare moment of joy amid the uncertainties that had loomed over them.