Chapter 29
“Let’s go.” Morris said, opening the door for Cherise.
Morris and Cherise sat in the back of the Maybach as Leo drove cruising through the morning. As they got comfortable, Moms offered Chenise a bottle of milk
“Cherise, have some milk,” he suggested kindly.
Cherise, her tone gentle, looked at him and said. Tve already eaten, but thanks.”
“You’re still growing Milk will give you an extra boost,” Morris pressed, already unscrewing the cap and slipping in a straw.
Feeling a bit parched from her light breakfast of toast Cherise took the bottle with a “Thank you,” and sipped the warm. satisfying milk.
Morris let out a soft laugh, clearly tickled by her manners
Up front. Leo looked somewhat uncomfortable, as if he felt out of sync with the situation.
Upon reaching Azure Peak after a thirty–minute drive, Cherise took in the expansive view of the rolling hills and the city’s distinctive skyline.
Familiar with the area as the residence of Trent, Liam, and Marion, she felt a sense of recognition.
As they pulled up to the Chivers estate. Morris alighted and opened Cherise’s door
Emerging from the car, she surveyed the imposing mansion, a symbol of their affluence and legacy. Cherise was privately awestruck, yet she maintained a composed and impassive facade
The staff, led by butler Greg. were taken aback when they saw Morris arrive with Cherise, a vision of loveliness at his side. These were the Chivers old–timers, and they’d never witnessed their young master with such a captivating companion. It was a moment of both astonishment and tacit approval.
Shielding Cherise from the staff’s astonished looks. Morris stepped in front of her. “Greg, get everyone back to their tasks. Cherise and I are heading to see Grandma.” Morris requested.
Greg raised his voice to address the staff. “Okay, team, back to your stations.” Then, turning to Morris and Cherise, he said respectfully, “Mr. Chivers, Miss, this way, please.”
Morris guided Cherise to proceed ahead. positioning himself close by, almost as a protective shield.
As they made their way down the hall towards Phoebe’s room, the air was rich with the scent of medicinal herbs–all heart- healthy plants
Lost in contemplation, Cherise navigated the corridor and found herself in front of Phoebe’s room
Ruth, noticing the visitors through the open door, stepped out to greet them. “Mr. Chivers, what brings you by?” she asked, her voice respectful as she noticed Cherise. “And who’s this with you?*
Cherise didn’t wait for Morris to answer. I’m here to see Mrs. Chivers. Let’s head in,” she told Ruth, before making her way into the house
Isn’t she a bit young for this. Mr. Chivers? Is she really up to it? Ruth inquired, skepticism lacing her voice as she trailed Morris, who was following Cherise
Inside, Nick was instructing the nursing staff on the IV change for Phoebe. His eyes showed a flicker of anxiety when Morris
13:27 Tue, Dec 3
Chapter 29
entered.
“Mr. Chivers, you’re here.” Nick greeted, a bit more cautiously than usual because of their previous encounter.
Morris acknowledged him with a nod. “This is the doctor I’ve brought in. I want you to work with her,” he said, indicating Cherise.
Nick was taken aback by Cherise’s youth. “So young a doctor. I’ll do my utmost to cooperate,” he assured, indicating that he was a fair–minded physician who didn’t let first impressions dictate his opinion.
Morris addressed Cherise with a grateful look. “I’m entrusting my grandmother to you,” he said, expressing his trust.
“Wait a minute! Who’s this trying to deceive the Chiverses?” Harold, a man bearing a striking resemblance to Morris, stormed into the room, his flushed face betraying his anger.
Morris’s annoyance was clear as his brow furrowed. “What brings you here?” he asked.
“I’m your father–1 can show up whenever I want. And if it weren’t for me, my mother would be in a tough spot,” Harold replied sharply.
As Harold approached Cherise, his eyes betrayed a moment of surprise at her presence before his stern expression reasserted itself. “Young lady, appearances won’t shield you from scrutiny,” he warned.
Morris stepped in to intervene, instructing Leo to empty the room and positioning himself between Cherise and Harold.
“Harold, that’s enough, Morris said firmly, his tone a clear warning. 1 vouch for her. I won’t inquire who informed you, but you must leave immediately. Or face the consequences.
The atmosphere in the room crackled with tension, Morris’s authority casting a shadow even over his father, Harold found himself at a loss for words under Morris’s stern regard.
Cherise, standing behind Morris, looked at his protective stance a whirlwind of emotions in her eyes–concern, empathy, ar perhaps something more.
Ultimately, only Cherise, Nick, and a nurse remained as Morris had insisted, with Leo overseeing the departure of the others from the room.
