When Her Death Couldn't Break Him (Cecilia and Nathaniel) novel Chapter 2208

Chelsea lunged forward, wrapping her arms around Phoebe and bursting into grateful laughter. "Mom, you're wonderful—thank you," she breathed against Phoebe's shoulder.

Off to the side, Cecilia watched the tender scene between mother and daughter, a vague ache blooming inside her chest.

If only my mother were still in this world.

Phoebe stroked Chelsea's back in slow, reassuring circles. "All I ask is that you never regret your choice," she whispered.

Chelsea managed a small smile, then lifted her head, posture suddenly earnest.

"I can't guarantee I'll never regret it," she said, eyes clear. "People change—so do feelings. I can't promise he'll always treat me well. I can't even promise I won't misjudge him. But I can promise this: right now, he is good to me, and right now, I am truly happy."

Hearing her daughter say that, Phoebe found no further words; all that remained was a silent, fragile hope glowing in her gaze.

From the moment a woman becomes a mother, a single wish anchors her heart: that her daughter might move through the world unburdened—bright-eyed, laughter spilling like sunlight, loved and unmistakably happy.

Phoebe smoothed Chelsea's hair, her voice warm but firm. "Good. That's what I needed to hear. Now keep eating, sweetheart, before the rice and soup go cold."

Chelsea nodded. "Okay."

The next spoonfuls vanished faster than the first; each bite lit her face with a relief that had been missing for days.

When the dishes were cleared, Phoebe rose and followed Cecilia toward the hallway. She pressed the young woman's hands, gratitude shining in her eyes. "Ceci, we've intruded on you long enough today. Thank you."

"Really, it's no trouble at all." Cecilia's answer was light, almost teasing. "Jason called earlier asking about Chelsea. I only told him you'd taken her home. I didn't mention the injury."

Cecilia had no idea it was a car crash either.

Phoebe gave a thoughtful nod. "I understand. I'll explain everything to him. Thank you, dear."

They spoke for a few more minutes before work pulled Cecilia away. With a final wave, she stepped into the elevator, leaving mother and daughter alone.

Phoebe tucked the blanket around Chelsea's waist. "Rest here, darling. I'll go home and talk to your father about you and Jason." She kissed her forehead before hurrying into the corridor.

When Kingston heard Phoebe had finally relented and was willing to let their daughter date Jason, he sat back in his chair, stunned.

"Back then, you were the one dead set against him. What changed your mind?" Kingston asked, still trying to wrap his head around it.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify