When Family Became a Place I Couldn’t Return To novel Chapter 208

Early the next morning, Nelly was already up, waiting for Carrie to wake. She’d taken her time getting ready, slipping into a soft, slate-gray maxi dress that brushed her ankles, and throwing a cream-white blouse over her shoulders. The outfit made her look delicate and soft, her skin peeking through the gentle, muted colors. There was something effortlessly elegant about her, a sweet mix of innocence and allure.

Nelly sat at the dining table, adding the finishing touches to her makeup. She didn’t really need much—her skin was already glowing thanks to her diligent skincare routine lately. A little foundation, and she looked radiant. As she filled in her brows, Marian, who was tidying up nearby, stopped for a moment, a bit distracted.

“Ma’am, you’re just getting prettier every day,” Marian said with a smile.

Nelly smiled back and glanced at the table. Only two sets of dishes were set out. She looked up toward the staircase. The door to Brody’s room was wide open. He must have left early. Earlier than usual, actually.

Just then, Carrie wandered into the dining room. She looked a little sleepy, clutching the new plushie Nelly had given her, but her mood was bright. Nelly had been so busy lately that she hadn’t had much time to spend with Carrie, and Carrie had been a little sulky. But this morning, after seeing the gift and card, all her complaints disappeared.

Carrie held out her toy, sidling up to Nelly and grinning. “Mommy, did you pick this? It’s so cute!”

“I did. I looked for a long time before finding it. I’m so glad you like it.” Nelly pinched Carrie’s soft, chubby cheek.

Her daughter was just five years old. This was how she should be—pure, happy, and adorable. Nelly remembered when Carrie used to act so grown-up, always behaving well but carrying herself with a seriousness that didn’t quite fit her age. It wasn’t just Carrie’s personality. Nelly knew she was partly to blame.

Carrie was smart and quick to learn. She really was a gifted child, and both Tina and Brody had high expectations for her. Back then, after Nelly lost Finn, she’d poured everything into taking care of Carrie, but she’d also unintentionally pushed her to grow up too fast, to be exceptional. Without realizing it, everyone wanted Carrie to be strong, to act like a perfect little heiress.

Maybe that was why Carrie always tried so hard to win Brody’s approval, even seeking out Sheila for a bit of freedom. But now, Nelly didn’t care about any of that. Whether her daughter was obedient or clever, whether she became a proper heiress, it didn’t matter. All that mattered was that Carrie could grow up happy and healthy and just be a kid.

“Mommy, you look so pretty today!” Carrie gazed up at Nelly, her big eyes shining. Nelly saw her own features reflected back at her, delicate and lovely.

Nelly closed her compact and winked at Carrie. Carrie giggled, feeling like her mom was being a little flirty, and quickly made a heart shape with her hands.

Marian watched them, her heart full. It had only been a little over a month, but the bond between mother and daughter had deepened so much. Even breakfast felt sweet. If only there were three of them at the table, it would be perfect.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify