“Actually... I just want you to pay more attention to me, spend more time with me, and... look at me a little more,” Nancy gently admitted her heart's desires.
“I see. Thanks for telling me. From now on, after I get off work, I will return as soon as I can, is that alright? I'll reject all invitations to social events too,” Jory stated.
He certainly could not put it off anymore. For so long, he had been enduring his wife's suspicion, not realizing that he had been neglecting her as well. Now that Nancy had revealed what had been on her mind, he ought to try his best to amend his faults.
“Really?” Nancy asked excitedly.
Joan liked what she was seeing and hearing. She was happy for Nancy. Hmm, Jory is surely a sensible man!
“Okay, I think I'll go now,” Joan declared as she got to her feet, ready to leave.
But the other woman was persistent. She tugged on her friend's arm and pleaded, “Don't go, Joan. Stay with me a while longer.”
Joan could not quite explain it, but Nancy had a look of grief and misery on her face, and it made her heart ache.
What exactly has Nancy gone through? How did she become so vulnerable?
“Alright. Just a little while longer,” Joan gave in and sat back down again.
Shortly after that, Nancy headed to the kitchen to prepare their next meal. While she was out of earshot, Joan took advantage of the opportunity to inquire Jory about his wife. “I hope you don't mind me saying it, but I think Nancy's changed somehow. Did something happen to her?”
Jory sighed first before revealing the truth Joan had been asking for, “Some time ago, our baby fell from the stairs. Luckily, the butler got hold of her in time. The baby wasn't harmed, but Nancy hasn't been the same since. She's constantly on edge and suspicious about things.”
So that's how it is! Joan turned back to look at
Nancy who was busy in the kitchen. After hearing her story, Joan began to pity the woman.
“Mrs. Synder, allow me.” The housemaid, who seemed worried, went up to Nancy and offered her assistance.
“That's quite alright. I can do this,” Nancy replied and waved her off.
“I understand now,” said Joan as she rose to her feet. “I think I've overstayed my welcome. I should get going. If there's anything you need, call me.”
“Thanks for everything!” Jory called out to her from behind.
White clouds drifted in the clear, blue sky, like cotton candy floating in the wind. Joan looked up and closed her eyes, feeling the caress of the gentle breeze.
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