leaving you bereft
Altar 255
The kitchen was quiet, with only Julian standing by the counter, preparing the ingredients. He was wearing a ck shirt and ck trousers, showing off his broad shoulders that made him look poised and distinguished.
His silhouette was striking, the kind that women would go crazy for. This scene was something Willow once longed for, but now, it only brought a sense of nostalgia and sorrow.
She stood by the door, silently watching him prepare the food. It looked like he was preparing some sd, spaghetti, and roasted pork chops.
Even with one hand, Julian’s movements were precise. It was clear he’d cook for Landon often. His expression was calm and focused,pletely different from the Julian of years past.
Right now, Julian no longer cared for fame and fortune. Instead, he looked like a perfect househusband.
Willow didn’t disturb him and left quietly, but Julian still sensed her presence. He nced up and said gently, “Just wait a little longer. Dinner will be ready soon.”
Willow found it cloying. After thinking for a bit, she decided to make it clear. “You don’t have to do this. Just let the chef handle it. You don’t have to treat me so nicely, either. We’re just temporary partners, after all
They weren’t even nning to register the marriage. They were just living together for Landon’s sake.
Julian lowered his gaze. The soft lights cast shadows on his face as he forced ae. “I know. Ijant treat you better. After all, women bear the greater burden during pregnancy and childarth.”
Willow had nearly lost her life giving birth to Landon and Gabrie. In fact, Juliar siL from that. If it weren’t absolutely necessary, he wouldn’t let Willow go through pregnan
He continued chopping the ingredients and said, “Besides, apart from love and marriage, we are still mily I want to take care of you and make you happy.”
Willow didn’t say another word. She gently pulled her shawl tighter and quietly stepped out of the kitchen.
Outside, the clouds drifted across the sky, creating a dazzling scene.
At the end of the month, Julian made a trip to Yarrowmere to clean up Dexter’s mess, so Willow took care. the children alone.
Late at night, it began drizzling. Willow leaned against the headboard, telling the children a bedtime story. Landon and Gabrie were both slowly drifting to sleep. Meanwhile, Snowy grew more animated, its big ck eyes wide open and alert.
Eventually, Gabrie couldn’t hold on and fell asleep.
Landon quietly snuggled into Willow’s arms, pressing his tiny face against her chest to soak in her warmth. He asked softly, “Mommy, are we going to have a baby brother or sister soon? Why do you and Daddy want another baby?”
Willow hugged him gently and replied, “That’s because both you and Gabrie are so cute, that Daddy and I want another adorable baby. Do you want a baby brother or sister?”
Blushing from thepliment, Landon burrowed deep into her embrace. After a while, he replied softly, “I
want a baby sister. She has to be smaller than me, so I’
Willow kissed his cheek. “Landon, you’re going to grov
Having received her attention, Landon closed his eyes c Willow, and even his breathing was faintly sweet.
In the dark night, the rain hit the window, making thei
At the door to the children’s room, Julian stood, worn a ck trench coat was covered in fine droplets. 2
He had just rushed back from Yarrowmere and happene
want a baby sister. She has to be smaller than me, so I’ll protect her.”
Willow kissed his cheek. “Landon, you’re going to grow up big and strong, just like Daddy.”
Having received her attention, Landón closed his eyes contentedly. He wrapped his little arms around Willow, and even his breathing was faintly sweet.
In the dark night, the rain hit the window, making the night more silent.
At the door to the children’s room, Julian stood, worn and weary. He had a suitcase in his hand, and his ck trench coat was covered in fine droplets. 2
He had just rushed back from Yarrowmere and happened to hear Willow’s conversation with Landon.