Chapter 529
“A little mishap occurred, Grandma, but please don’t fret. We’ll be there shortly,” Anneliese assured, her voice steady despite the tension in her chest.
“Very well, then! I’ll instruct the kitchen to whip up some more of your favorites. There’s no need to rush on the road. If timing gets tricky, it’s perfectly all right. The old man can be quite unbearable-don’t let him bother you. Just do what feels best for you,” Penelope replied, her tone warm and reassuring.
Anneliese had never anticipated that Penelope would put her own needs first, prioritizing her comfort over the usual family expectations.
With a soft smile, she replied, “Grandma, you’re so kind. It feels like ages since we last saw each other-I’ve missed you dearly p>
Penelope’s laughter rang out, a delightful sound that brightened the conversation. “Just remember to drive carefully,” she reminded them before ending the call.
Handing the phone to Jonathan, Anneliese met his gaze, her expression a mixture of concern and encouragement. “If you’re not up for it, we can stick to our original plan. I can take you back to Oceaton later p>
Her smile was genuine, but the playful glint in her eyes was unmistakable. “I have to go at some point. Or do you think I’m an unattractive wife you wish to hide away p>
Jonathan recognized her teasing nature, a gentle attempt to alleviate the tension that hung in the air.
He cradled her face in his hands, his eyes searching hers. “You look pale,
exhausted, and those dark circles under your eyes tell their own story p>
Anneliese stiffened, taken aback by his words—until he added with a soft smile, “Yet somehow, you remain impossibly beautiful p>
She playfully shoved against his chest, but the small movement sent a wave of dizziness through her.
In an instant, Jonathan gathered her into his arms, allowing her to rest against him. “Maybe we shouldn’t go after all p>
His thoughts swirled with concern. Her body still felt fragile to him. I cherish her too much to let her endure any discomfort. Why should I tolerate anyone’s attitude, even from family?
Anneliese tugged gently at his shirt, her voice firm yet soft. “I’m perfectly fine. If we postpone this visit, especially past New Year’s, we might miss out on a gift p>
He lowered his gaze, a mix of helplessness and affection in his eyes. “You little money-lover p>
The caravan was prepared and waiting. Anneliese nestled comfortably in Jonathan’s arms throughout the ride. The journey was so smooth that she hardly noticed the occasional bump along the way.
As they approached the Fullbuster Residence, Anneliese gazed out, though her view was somewhat limited from the caravan bed. Upon reaching the gates, the guards greeted them with warm New Year wishes and waved them through, their faces familiar and welcoming.
The path meandered through towering, ancient trees, twisting and turning until, ten minutes later, they arrived at the main courtyard.
Anneliese attempted to sit up and
Pet
straighten her appearance, but Jonathan gently halted her. When the caravan came to a stop he took the time to smooth her hair and adjust her clothes, his touch tender and attentive.
“Mrs. Fullbuster looks absolutely perfect,” he declared, pride evident in his voice. Anneliese blinked in surprise. “If I look dreadful, it’s your reputation that suffers p>
He raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk gracing his lips. “A wife’s beauty is a husband’s glory Today I’m here to show you off. Youare not allowed to underestimate yourself p>
A shy laugh escaped her, her cheeks flushing with warmth. “Stop it p>
If he continued to shower her with compliments, she feared she might become too embarrassed to step out of the caravan. The thought of panicking in front of everyone was daunting.
When she finally felt ready, she made a move to exit—but before she could, Jonathan’s arm slid beneath her knees, lifting her effortlessly.
Anneliese froze in surprise. “What are you doing? Put me down! This isn’t appropriate p>
This is my first formal meeting with his family. I wanted to exude calmness and
dignity. Being carried in like this feels so childish!
But Jonathan was unyielding, tightening his grip around her.
“Hold onto me,” he instructed softly.
“But p>
“You’re here to pay your respects despite your injuries. That alone speaks volumes about your sincerity and respect. Who would dare complain? Just trust me and listen p>
With that, he stepped out of the caravan while still cradling her. In the courtyard, several servants paused, their eyes widening in surprise as they took in the scene. Anneliese felt her ears flush with heat. She instinctively wrapped her arms around Jonathan’s neck, seeking comfort in his embrace.
Most of the staff present for the New Year were older, many having served the Fullbuster family for generations.
They had watched Jonathan grow up-cold, distant, and seemingly untouched by the presence of women.
No one could have predicted witnessing such a surreal and heartwarming sight.
Here he was, married, bringing his wife home, carrying her with a gentle smile that radiated warmth and love.