When There Is Nothing Left But Love

I had opened the door and was ready to alight when Ashton cleared his throat rather aggressively.

Joseph immediately jumped in. “Mrs. Fuller, we’ll definitely be going to Lavelian Village. We’re only planning to make a short detour to Gold Scale Estate. Why don’t you come along with us? There aren’t many cars headed in that direction, and with the one-hour-long drive, it’ll be inconvenient for you to get a taxi.”

I looked at him uncertainly. “Really?”

Joseph nodded, then said earnestly, “I wouldn’t lie to you, Mrs. Fuller. The Lavelian project just started, so we definitely plan on heading over there to take a look. Isn’t that right, Mr. Fuller?”

Ashton made a brief grunt of acknowledgment. I turned to look at him to size up the situation, but he seemed thoroughly focused on tucking in the breakfast delicately. I guessed that Ashton hadn’t heard a word we’d said.

Seeing Ashton’s unconcerned demeanor, I decided not to put myself out unnecessarily. I slumped back into the seat and beamed at Joseph. “Thanks for the ride, then!”

Joseph smiled politely, then drove off.

The Gold Scale Estate was rather close by, and we arrived within ten minutes. We were greeted by the sight of Rachel in a white linen dress, her permed hair rippling over her shoulders. On one hand, she toted the most fashionable luxury handbag that was available this season. She looked every bit a wealthy heiress.

The car rolled to a stop just beside Rachel. She leaned over to open the door of the passenger seat. After a couple of tugs, however, the door remained stuck fast. I looked over at Joseph with concern. “Mr. Campbell, I think you didn’t unlock the door,” I reminded him.

“I’m sorry, Mrs. Fuller. It must have slipped my mind.” Joseph returned. He sprang into action, suddenly getting out of the car. Before I could react, Ashton had replaced Joseph in the driver’s seat and was already calmly fastening his seatbelt.

Joseph, meanwhile, had settled into the passenger’s seat.

rosy smile faltered, her face darkening. She said rather haughtily, “Is Ms. Stovall here too? Didn’t Mr.

very skilled driver, and the roads leading to Lavelian Village aren’t smooth. That’s why I didn’t drive today,” I informed

in the backseat in trepidation. He looked

breakfast yet? I made pancakes this

eaten,” Ashton replied

morning! Mr. Fuller just finished

at Rachel and said goodhumoredly, “Ms. Zimmer, I think

lunchbox in her hand to Joseph. “Try it, Mr.

have refused if the lunchbox hadn’t already been unceremoniously

gave a faint smile and began digging

save for the sound of Joseph chewing. Determinedly, Rachel turned once more to Ashton. “Mr. Fuller, the Magpie Festival’s today. Do you have any plans

on asking Ashton

road like a model driver. “I’m busy with work tonight,” he

mean that he has no time to waste? I

be done with work rather quickly

from the corner of his eyes. Then he inquired with sudden interest,

a moment before blurting

then addressed Rachel, saying, “I’ll be going home for