Unveiled Secret

CHAPTER 17

The evening cloaked the De La Rouge estate in a tranquil embrace, the twilight casting a warm glow upon the ancient facade. Vivienne stood in the parlor, her fingers tracing the intricate woodwork of the mantelpiece as she savored the comfort of being home once more.

"Vivienne?" Louis' voice carried a gentle inquiry as he entered, his stony features softening at the sight of his niece.

A tender smile graced her lips. "Louis , I'm so glad to be back. This place—it feels like a hug."

Louis chuckled, a sound rich with affection. "I'm relieved to have you here. His eyes brimming with a paternal affection. "I cannot express how relieved I am to have you back safe and sound." He crossed the room, enveloping her in a warm embrace. "When Henri told us about Philippe's claims..."

Vivienne stiffened at the mention of that name, her mind flashing back to the harrowing ordeal in the mountains. "I know," she murmured, pulling away. "It's a miracle I'm alive."

"Indeed." Louis studied her intently. "And now that you've returned, what are your plans, dear girl? Will you stay here with us?" The question hung in the air, heavy with expectation. Vivienne let out a slow breath.

A contemplative silence settled between them as Vivienne turned to gaze out the window, her eyes drawn to the sprawling vineyards that stretched towards the horizon. "I've thought about it, Louis," she began, her voice tinged with a melancholic yearning. "And as much as I cherish this place, a part of me longs for something more."

Louis furrowed his brow. "More? But you have everything here—your family, your home..."

"I know," Vivienne interjected gently. "But after all I've experienced, after losing myself and finding my way back, I can't help but feel a calling to use this second chance for a greater purpose." She turned to face him once more, her eyes alight with determination. "I want to help others, to make a difference in the world beyond these walls."

A proud smile tugged at Louis' lips. "Ah, I see. You wish to pursue medicine, like your friend Dr. Bennet."

Vivienne nodded, her heart swelling at the thought of Steven. "He has been an inspiration to me, Louis. His unwavering dedication to his patients, his compassion..." She trailed off, a wistful look crossing her features.

Louis chuckled softly. "I sense there may be more than just professional admiration there, cherie."

A blush crept into Vivienne's cheeks. "Perhaps," she conceded. "But even if our paths diverge, I still wish to follow in his footsteps, to embrace the calling of healing others." "Then you must chase that dream," Louis urged, his tone resolute. "But don't forget, your safety comes first. You cannot rush into this—especially after all you've been through .""I won't, I promise," Vivienne reassured him, her gaze shifting towards the fireplace where flames danced in a lively rhythm.

"Then you have my full support." Louis clasped her hands in his, his eyes shining with pride. "Your grandmother and I will be behind you every step of the way."

Vivienne felt a surge of gratitude, her spirits lifting. "Thank you, Louis. Your blessing means everything to me." As Vivienne spoke, the soft sound of footsteps echoed from the hallway. Henri appeared, his hair tousled, eyes still shadowed by worry. The tension of unspoken words hung between them as he hesitated on the threshold.

"Vivienne." His voice was low, almost hesitant, as if he feared crossing an invisible line.

Warmth blossomed in her chest at the sight of him, memories of their tumultuous past intermingling with the undeniable bond they shared. "Henri," she greeted, her voice soft. Henri stepped forward, his eyes scanning her face for traces of the girl he once knew.