Through her tears, Lindsay asked, “If my legs improve, will you stop caring about me?”
Matthew sidestepped the question, replying, “You were raised by my grandparents and are part of the Clark family. I consider you my sister, and I’ll always support you whenever you need it.”
Lindsay, sensing the implicit denial of her hopes, pressed on. “You know that’s not what I’m asking.”
Matthew looked away, remaining silent.
Seeing his avoidance, Lindsay let out a bitter laugh. “If that’s the case, I’d rather remain like this forever.”
Matthew’s frown deepened. “Stop speaking like that.”
Lindsay lowered her head, tears streaming down her face.
Between sobs, she pleaded, “Matthew, can you stay with me? Since we returned to Seamarsh, you’ve been neglecting me. If I’d known it would be like this, we should have stayed in Sothrea, relying on each other. Am I an embarrassment to you?”
Matthew’s frown deepened. “The doctor suggested that you shouldn’t worry excessively. I’ve been overwhelmed with work since returning to Seamarsh. With the maids taking care of you, I’m at ease.”
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Lindsay’s cries intensified. “But I need you. I miss our time in Sothrea so much.”
Whenever Lindsay spoke of Sothrea, Matthew felt a peculiar discomfort.
Eager to shift the conversation, he spoke softly. “Rest now. I’m here and not going anywhere.”
Lindsay wished to say more, but seeing Matthew’s displeased expression, she acquiesced.
“Just having you here means a lot to me.”
As she spoke, she reached out to hold Matthew’s hand but, noticing his expression, hesitantly grasped his sleeve instead.
Matthew’s reaction was minimal, his brow furrowing briefly.
Seeing no objection from him, Lindsay smiled and closed her eyes in contentment.
Matthew remained seated beside her, his emotions conflicted.
Once Lindsay’s breathing evened out, indicating she was asleep, Matthew gently detached her hand and quietly exited the room.
He made his way to the doctor’s office to seek an update on Lindsay’s condition.
The doctor explained, “Miss Wheeler has experienced a sudden physical change and is struggling to accept it, which is why her emotions are unstable. She needs the presence of her family during this time.”
Matthew listened, feeling an overwhelming sense of exhaustion.
That evening, Lucia summoned Stella to the family home. Upon seeing Stella, Lucia immediately noticed her ashen appearance and asked with concern, “Stella, you look unwell. Are you ill?”
Stella quickly reassured her, “No, it’s just that I’ve been extremely tired from work lately and haven’t had enough rest. Please don’t worry.”