Trouble in Paradise



Chapter 0572

The rain kept pouring, and it felt heavier where I stood. The droplets clung to me like a suffocating veil, making it hard to breathe.

Nicholas stood before me, looking almost innocent. "If standing here with you proves my sincerity, I'm willing to do it.'

Sincerity? How could anyone be so shameless? Threatening me with our child and daring to talk about sincerity! "Nicholas, I told you to leave!" My voice trembled with anger as I yelled.

A trace of sadness flickered in his eyes. "Where do you want me to go? This is the Coral Villa-our home. If anyone leaves, it'll be the two of us going inside together. I'm not leaving you out here alone."

Through the rain, I tilted my head slightly to meet his gaze. The sight of him made my eyes sting.

I didn't know if it was from the rain or from crying too much, but just looking at him brought a wave of sorrow so fierce it felt like it would drown me.

I curled my lips into a bitter smile and turned toward the door. I whispered, "You, Nicholas Hawk, will never deserve a family."

Behind me, a heavy sound echoed through the rain. Nicholas had dropped to his knees, his trembling arms barely holding him upright.

'Ariana..."

I froze, glancing back with a numb gaze.

Was his heart breaking again? This time, was it because of me? Or was it because I said he didn't deserve a family?

Nicholas forced himself to look up, his red-rimmed eyes locking on mine. He stretched a hand toward me as if reaching for support or grasping at something invisible.

He trembled, but his voice was solemn like an oath. "Ariana... As long as we're together, that's family."

I stared at him, my gaze cold and filled with undisguised disgust. I didn't move, nor did I respond. Under my icy glare, he slowly lowered his hand and hung his head.

I turned away, my voice emotionless. 'Then stay here on your knees."

The commotion between Nicholas and me didn't go unnoticed. The maids had been quietly watching from the shadows.

Before I could push the door open, someone opened it for me and draped a large towel over my shoulders. "Mrs. Hawk, dry off first so you don't catch a cold."

At the same time, another maid rushed outside with an umbrella to fetch Nicholas.Ccontent © exclusive by Nô/vel(D)ra/ma.Org.

Wendy approached with a cup of ginger tea, tears still wet on her face. "Here, drink this to warm up," she said, pressing the cup into my hands.

Seeing Wendy broke something inside me. My tears spilled over as I choked out, "Wendy, how has Tabitha been these past two days?"

Wendy began to cry as well. "She's doing well. Don't worry. As long as I'm here, nothing will happen to her. I promise.'

Her guilt was evident as she pulled me into a tearful embrace.

"It's all my fault. I should've taken Tabitha home yesterday. I thought you and Mr. Hawk could work things out. It's all my fault, all my fault...

"It's not your fault. I overestimated Nicholas' feelings for me. His love has always been heartless. I should've known better."

Wendy patted my shoulder. "Don't cry anymore. Take a hot shower and check on Tabitha."

I nodded and downed the hot tea in one gulp under her concerned gaze. No matter how much pain I felt, I couldn't afford to neglect my health.

I was on my own now. I had to stay strong. I couldn't even afford the luxury of falling ill.

*Mrs. Hawk, Mr. Hawk refuses to come inside. If he keeps standing in the rain, he'll get sick. Could you please persuade him?"

The maid who had gone out with the umbrella rushed back, panting.

I glanced at Nicholas, who was still standing stubbornly in the rain. I shook my head and replied, "Let him be."

He knew I had a soft heart. Time and again, I had compromised for him. I wouldn't do it anymore.