Divorced But Not Defeated The Military Queen’s Rise Again novel Chapter 273

Chapter 273 Quiet Company

Chapter 273 Quiet Company

Quinn froze. Did his mother really choose to end her life on the very day he was born?

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He said softly, “Don’t look at me with pity.” The thought flickered that he could have used her compassion to bind her closer, yet the idea tasted bitter on his tongue.

Her sympathetic gaze only sharpened his sense of disgrace.

She had lost every relative, yet she still shone. Friends, comrades, and mentors rallied around her bright spirit.

The one left utterly alone was him.

That was why he yearned to crawl into her world and stay.

“I’m sorry,” Quinn whispered.

“No need,” he answered. “On my birthday, I’ll visit her grave, then spend the rest of the day somewhere quiet by myself.”

“Then this year…” Quinn began, her voice tentative.

“If you’re willing,” he murmured, “stay with me. We won’t do anything. We’ll simply be still together.”

“All right,” she said. “On your birthday, I’ll be there.”

That single promise sent warmth surging across Julius‘ chest.

Every previous birthday had felt like torture.

This year, with her beside him, the day might finally feel different.

He leaned in and brushed her lips with his. The kiss was light yet searing.

Softness and sweetness tangled together, pulling him deeper.

“Quinnie, I love you. I love you more than I can say,” he rasped, his voice thick with feeling.

The depth of his love for her startled him.

He had never believed love could burn so fiercely or become so essential in such a short time.

Only after meeting her did he realize he was not a creature without emotion. Every feeling he possessed existed solely for her.

“I love you too, Julius,” Quinn replied.

His lashes trembled.

Quinn rolled her eyes and tugged her friend toward the next shop.

They wandered until they reached a jewelry shop.

A bracelet caught Quinn’s eye–small sandalwood beads with a single jade bead carved into a flower motif.

“You like it?” Laura asked.

It’s understated but elegant.”

The clerk brightened. “Excellent taste, miss. This is a new arrival. The carved flower symbolizes peace year after year–perfect for a man’s gift.”

Quinn lowered her gaze while the clerk lifted the bracelet from its case.

She caressed the bracelet, imagining him wearing it. It would look perfect on his wrist.

I just hope the blessing is real–may peace finds him year after year.

“I’ll take it,” Quinn said.

That night, she sat in her room, the bracelet cupped in her palm. She slipped a card from a drawer and began to write: Julius Whitethorn, may every year bring you peace. May we stand by each other until we are old. — Quinn

Card finished, she placed it inside the box. The bedroom door flew open. “Quinnie!”