~ Rewritten Fates ~

Chapter 29 - A Prison of Silence

The next morning, Henry rises early, his restless night evident in his weary eyes. Philip and Mary's harsh words echo in his mind, an unwelcome chorus he can't silence. He walks aimlessly through the garden, his footsteps light but heavy with emotion. Diana remains soundly asleep in Beatrice's room, oblivious to the turmoil in her father's heart.

"Are you alright?" Beatrice's gentle voice breaks the silence as she approaches him. Henry nods without meeting her gaze, his hands tucked into his pockets. "I'm so sorry for whatever happened." she says softly, reaching out to hold his hand. Henry sighs deeply, still avoiding her eyes, his pain too raw to confront fully.

"Henry, don't be so sad. You know Philip is an idiot; there's no need to take his words seriously. Even Martha is fed up with him!" Bea says gently. "We can't blame him completely! It all happened because of that bitch!" Henry snaps, his voice sharp with frustration. "And I swear I'll kill her someday!" he exhales deeply, his anger barely contained.

"Henry, calm down, please." Bea pleads, her tone soft but firm. "I know it all happened because of her manipulation." she sighs, pausing for a moment. "But we can't do nothing. After all, she is our grandmother!"

"I don't care!" Henry retorts, his voice laced with defiance, his jaw tightening as he turns away. "It's okay." Bea whispers softly as she pulls him into a comforting embrace, her hands gently rubbing his back. Henry takes a deep breath, his eyes closing momentarily as he absorbs the warmth of her support. They part after a moment, and Beatrice holds his hand firmly. "I'm always there for you, Hen." she says, her voice steady and reassuring.

Henry offers a faint smile, nodding appreciatively. "Anyways, would you mind if I take Ana to the store with me?" Bea asks, tilting her head slightly.

"Bea, she's your niece, right? Take her wherever you want. You don't have to ask for my permission." Henry replies with a light chuckle. "Fine. Meanwhile, you go spend some time with mom, I'll get Ana ready, and we'll meet you this evening." Beatrice grins. "Sure." Henry agrees, his smile a bit of brighter this time.

~~~~~~

Henry knocks softly on the door and steps into Catherine's room. "Mom, what are you doing?" he asks in a gentle tone. Catherine turns to face the mirror, brushing her hair. "Oh! You again? I thought you left." she says with a faint smile.

"Not yet, mumma." Henry replies, chuckling softly and looking down. Standing behind her, he catches her gaze in the mirror. "Would you mind if I do it?" he asks, a glimmer of hope in his eyes.

"Oh! Okay, go ahead." Catherine says, handing him the brush. Henry takes it and begins brushing her hair tenderly, his touch careful and reminiscent of his childhood days. "Your hair is still smooth and silky, just like before." he murmurs with a smile.

"Yes! Henry also says the same while brushing my hair." Catherine replies casually. Henry's expression shifts, his smile fading into a deep sigh as emotions stir within him.

"Papa, I'm going to the store with Aunt." Diana calls out, dashing toward Henry. "I know, honey. Don't disturb her too much, okay?" Henry responds, leaning down to kiss her forehead. "I'll miss you, papa." Diana says sweetly. "I'll miss you too. Now run along, or you both will be late!" Henry gently ushers her back. Diana beams, running back to Beatrice, and they head out together.

Watching them leave, Henry turns back as Catherine, his mother, approaches. "Is that your daughter?" she asks, her tone curious yet soft. "Yes, mom, she's your grandchild." Henry replies with a proud smile. "Oh! She looks exactly like you." Catherine observes, a nostalgic warmth in her voice. Henry's smile widens, his heart swelling with joy.

Catherine sits on the bed as Henry hands her the medicine. "I think you should take some rest now, as it's important for your health." he advises softly.