From Ashes of Scandals to His Embrace novel Chapter 504

When Adolphus spotted Laurinda looking so wounded and miserable, he let out a long sigh. She really could be such a sensitive girl sometimes.

He came over and crouched down beside her, wrapping her in a gentle hug. His voice was soft, almost teasing. “If you’re upset, go ahead and yell at me or hit me. Why turn it in on yourself? Honestly, seeing you this way hurts way more than if you’d just let me have it.”

Laurinda stayed quiet in his arms. No way she’d admit it, but the moment he let go of her backpack earlier, she’d immediately regretted it.

Adolphus took her gently by the arms and pulled her to her feet. He shook his head, smiling helplessly. “If you show up to see Fidelia and Regan like this, they’re totally going to think I’ve been mean to you.”

Laurinda glanced up at him, her eyes red and puffy. That look twisted something in Adolphus’s chest. He wrapped her up tighter and said in a hushed tone, “I didn’t lie to you on purpose. I honestly have no idea who she is.”

“That trip to Aurelia? I was there with Balaam. After everything went down, I left and never talked to the Cole family again. My parents handled all the rest. If you don’t believe me, call them. They’d never lie to you.”

He whispered all of this close to Laurinda’s ear, but she stayed silent. After a long pause, she finally whispered, “Don’t you think I’m being dramatic?”

“Well… maybe just a little,” he admitted, his voice light. “But I don’t mind. I made up my mind when we got together. However you are, I’ll take it. All of it.”

“Everyone grows up different. Everyone’s quirks come from somewhere. If you’re a little sensitive, that probably means I haven’t done enough to make you feel safe. That’s on me.”

“Laurinda, maybe I seem cold sometimes. But I’m not that way with you. I promise. I’m patient too. You can always be yourself around me. If you’re upset, show it. I can handle all of you.”

He was only half joking—honestly, ever since he learned Laurinda still had a fiancé in Stonehaven, he’d been secretly panicking about losing her. He wanted to make the first move and secure his spot.

Laurinda looked up at him, actually considering it for a second. But she shook her head, letting out a soft sigh. She still had things to work through. What if something happened to her? What would happen to Adolphus then?

“I… no…”

Before she could even finish, Adolphus pressed his finger gently to her lips. “Don’t turn me down so fast. I mean it. I know what’s worrying you, but I told you before—whatever you’re dealing with, I’m staying with you. I’ll protect you, always. Just trust me.”