fanqie novel
Chapter 121
Chapter 121
“Nothing,” Gwendolyn muttered to herself, her whole body warming with embarrassment as the image she had glimpsed earlier flashed in her mind.
It was a figure drawing. The features of the woman in the sketch were indistinct, but her form was elegantly defined, completely bared to the artist’s discerning eye.
The lines were drawn with a confident hand, each detail meticulously crafted. It was a testament to the artist’s dedication. The directness of the feminine body before her jolted Gwendolyn.
In the drawing, the woman’s pose was seductive, her allure unmistakable.
It was hard to tell if the subject was a sculpture or a real person. If she were real, Gwendolyn might have felt a twinge of envy. Even those studying art had to learn the intricacies of the human form.
But why would such a drawing be found in the Chadwick family’s studio?
“Marina, has Mr. Chadwick ever studied painting?” Gwendolyn inquired, her curiosity piqued.
While tidying up some picture frames, Marina answered, “The Chadwicks are cultured in all areas. Howard has passed the strictest exams in both violin and piano, with his piano. skills being professional.”
That was the way of the nobility to cultivate their offspring in all aspects of refinement.
Impressed, Gwendolyn remarked, “So he’s that talented.”
With a hint of regret, Marina continued, “Howard used to spend time in the studio every week, along with that Se… But since the accident, he hasn’t set foot here.”
Gwendolyn had always forgotten to ask about the specifics of the accident.
From Howard, all she knew was that the accident had been orchestrated by Bainbridge.
“Marina, what exactly happened on the day of the accident?” asked Gwendolyn..
Marina grew uneasy and spoke offhandedly, “Just a truck driver, nodding off and smashing right into him. All he got was a measly two years, and Howard… he’s been stuck with crippled legs ever/since.
The punishment for traffic offenses was not strict.
If the money was right and the family was willing to forgive, there was hardly any real punishment. Content rights belong to NôvelDrama.Org.
“The insurance paid out a million. What use is money to us? The Chadwick family is rolling in it.” Marina was tinged with indignation.
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Gwendolyn felt a pang of sympathy. She wondered how much Bainbridge had paid the driver to take the fall. Bainbridge had gambled on the difficulty of uncovering the truth and had struck a deadly blow.
“Marina, every cloud has a silver lining,” she offered comfortingly.
Cleaning her tears, Marina said, “You’re right. You joining our family has been the silver lining.”
She took Gwendolyn’s hands firmly, pleading earnestly, “Please, Mrs. Chadwick, promise me, no matter what happens, you and Howard will never part. It’s normal for young couples to bicker. Howard may seem cold but he’s warm–hearted. Please be patient with him.”
Gwendolyn hesitated. She remembered the marriage agreement they had signed, which stipulated a divorce after three months. Everything now was but a fleeting moment.
“Mrs. Chadwick?” Marina called again.
Vaguely, Gwendolyn replied, “I’ll stay with him until his legs are healed.”
Marina seemed appeased, “I’ll clean up the studio properly, just in case Howard feels like painting again someday.”
With a quiet acknowledgment, Gwendolyn descended the stairs, her mind heavy with thoughts.
Descending the staircase, she caught sight of Howard standing up and pacing the living
room.
He was deliberately exercising his legs, starting slowly and then trying to quicken his pace. Sweat glistened on his polished forehead as he walked back and forth, his. expression stoic, until finally, he collapsed onto the carpet, exhausted.
“Mr. Chadwick!” Gwendolyn hurried over, “Did you hurt yourself?”
His eyes were clear and resolute, filled with a subtle ambition.
“I’m fine,” he said sternly.
“Let me help you up, haste makes waste,” Gwendolyn whispered, reaching out to pull his arm, but he wouldn’t budge.
He was being stubborn on purpose, pulling her off balance until she tumbled into his
arms.
Gwendolyn found herself with her head resting on his legs, forced to look up at him from below.
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