From Ashes of Scandal to His Embrace (Laurinda) novel Chapter 227

The three of them walked into Balaam’s courtyard, gifts in hand. Laurinda spotted Earl right away, sitting in the sunroom. She lifted an eyebrow.

“So, Earl is the big surprise?”

Adolphus noticed Earl, too. He had no idea what Harrell was up to, so he turned and gave him a questioning look, waiting for an answer.

Harrell just laughed, shaking his head. “What are those faces for? Earl isn’t the surprise. Come on, you'll find out inside.”

He led the way, carrying the crabs into the kitchen. Adolphus took Laurinda with him into the main hall.

The second Laurinda stepped inside, she stopped in her tracks. She couldn’t believe her eyes.

Earl came out of the sunroom just then, gave Laurinda a nod, and spoke gently. “My senior gave Fidelia a check-up today. He thinks she can start getting out more. She just finished the last of the medicine my uncle left, so we brought her here for Balaam to take a look.”

Laurinda watched Fidelia chatting with Balaam and Regan. Her eyes started to sting. She honestly couldn’t remember the last time she’d seen Fidelia looking so alive.

Adolphus set down the gift boxes and walked over, wrapping Laurinda in his arms. His voice was soft and steady.

“Fidelia getting out of the care facility is a really good start. Isn’t this what you’ve been hoping for? Seeing her talk with people like everyone else?”

Laurinda nodded, holding back tears. She turned and hugged Adolphus tightly, burying her face in his chest.

“She really did it.”

“She did. And it’s only going to get better from here.”

Adolphus held her a little closer, letting Laurinda take her time and collect herself. He knew she didn’t like showing her vulnerable side in front of other people.

Regan grinned and waved her in. “Come on, have a seat. We’re so glad you’re here.”

Regan had already noticed Adolphus’s feelings for Laurinda the last time they met, and she was happy to see them together. They made a striking pair.

As Regan guided Laurinda inside, Adolphus spotted Fidelia hanging back, looking a little out of place. He softened his voice and asked,

“How’s it feel being out of the care facility?”

Fidelia smiled, just a little. “It’s not bad. Harrell thought I should get out and try adjusting to life outside, so I came with everyone. Honestly, Apex has changed so much. If you dropped me on a random street, I’m not sure I could find my way home.”

Laurinda’s face lit up at Fidelia’s joke. She hurried over and slipped an arm around her shoulders.

“If you want to go anywhere, I’ll go with you. I’d never leave you wandering around by yourself.”