Chapter: 1133

Recalling his father's recent words, Sean responded with restrained patience, despite feeling quite the opposite.

“Mom, I'm not Nancy's keeper. I can't monitor everything she consumes."

"Nancy just tried to frame me. I showed a lot of patience and tolerance by not kicking her out of this house."

Sean's expression darkened as he continued, "I love you guys, but that doesn't mean I'll love Nancy. Mom, if you want Nancy to stay in this house, tell her to abandon any ill-conceived plans and know her place."

Sean believed his father was right. As long as Nancy could provide emotional support to his mother, she was useful, and he could reluctantly agree to let her keep his mother company.

Kayla's expression shifted slightly. “You're claiming Nancy framed you? It was you who took advantage of her while she was under the influence of drugs. You'll have to explain yourself when Nancy wakes up."

Annoyed, Sean replied, "Fine, we'll see what comes to light then."

He didn't want to argue with his mother at the moment, so he politely escorted his parents out and closed the door.

Alone in the room, Sean's thoughts drifted to Norah again.

He longed for Norah to be with him, to hold her silently in his arms.

When his project was finished, he intended to go to Silverdale to find Norah. He had grown tired of their strained relationship over the past month. He planned to confront Norah with those photos of her and Marlin, questioning her about his own role as her boyfriend.

With hope in his heart, time seemed to crawl. He pulled out his phone and browsed through their photos together, a sweet look in his eyes.

Norah set her alarm for six o'clock in the morning. She woke instantly when it rang.

She nudged Marlin, who was sleeping restlessly beside her. "It's time to wake up."

Marlin's eyes snapped open, still clouded with a trace of confusion.

Though autumn mornings dawned late, the sky was already beginning to lighten.

Marlin's Maybach was stocked with washing utensils and food. They quickly freshened up and ate breakfast before heading out.

Before they started up the hill, Norah looked back at Marlin. “The road up the hill is rough. Are you sure you want to come with me?"

The hills or parks they typically frequented had stone steps constructed, making the paths more accessible for walking. But the path on this hill was merely a trail formed by frequent foot traffic, almost as navigable as the stone steps.

Was she doubting his ability again? Marlin's face darkened. "I can do it," he stated, a touch of irritation in his voice.

However, Norah seemed oblivious to his frustration. To her, Marlin was primarily a companion, and she appreciated his willingness to join her.

“Let's go."

As they ventured into the woods, the sounds of various animals filled the air. The scent of grass and trees wafted on the breeze, and dew clung to the plants, dampening their pant legs as they brushed past.

The air in the woods was a refreshing change from the city's. They took deep breaths, feeling their lungs clear with the pure air.