The Killer Queen ( Noella Briony ) novel Chapter 337

For the first time in years, a member of the younger generation had drawn so near to her!

As Elara's short hair tickled Helen's face during the embrace, it stirred a sensation that echoed the joy the old woman felt in her heart.

Feeling the love from her granddaughter, Helen tried to scold with a straight face, but the corners of her mouth betrayed her, curving into an uncontrollable smile.

"What's all this hugging about? Off with you! Horatio, stop gawking and come along. I've got things to discuss with you!"

"Right away."

Elara understood Helen's discomfort with crowded situations and didn't press her to stay for dinner.

Exiting the Schnabel Manor, the smile lingered on Helen's face.

Seeing Helen touching her face and smiling to herself, Horatio was astounded.

In all the years he'd known her, he'd never seen her exhibit such expressions of contentment, happiness, and tenderness. It was like a flood of emotions had swept over her.

Horatio waved his hand in front of Helen's face. "Helen, if you're happy, why not just tell Elara directly?"

"What do you know? I'm at an age where I'm practically one foot in the grave. It's only a matter of time for me."

Helen was inherently free-spirited, perhaps due to her unique path in life, which made her somewhat reclusive and aloof. She didn't want to grow too attached to Elara, fearing the pain her eventual departure would cause the girl.

After a moment of contemplation, Horatio sighed. "Given Elara's character, she won't forget you, even if you're not as close."

Just the mere fact that Helen had once fiercely defended Elara against baseless accusations was enough for Elara to forever remember her kindness.

Helen paused, then touched her cheek again. "Is that so? Indeed, that child has a heart of gold."

Everything she had done was worth it, after all.

Horatio, puzzled, asked, "Is hugging how Elara shows her gratitude and joy? Then why hasn't she hugged me as well?"

Helen gave Horatio a playful kick. "Shameless monk, go back to your prayers!"

Confused, Horatio wondered why his simple wish for equal treatment was deemed shameless.

Entering the Pollack Mansion, Helen looked for Sexton without success until she found the study door ajar. Sexton was coughing and seemed to be on a phone call.

"I know, I've been keeping up with my injections. It's okay, just some breathing issues. Visit when you can, bring some more medicine. Don't tell Noella, that girl's too tender-hearted. She'd blame herself if she knew my condition was incurable. Just bring the painkillers, don't fuss about the rest!"

Helen, hand on the doorknob, froze upon hearing this. She didn't enter but stood listening to Sexton's calm instructions.

"Now, my biggest concern is Jacob's family, especially Elara. Just let me tie up loose ends before I go. I'll take whatever medication necessary, but keep Helen in the dark. It's been a tough life for her. My biggest regrets are towards Kendra, Jacob, and...Helen."