Chapter 924
Chapter 924:
Her laughter bubbled up, light and unforced, as she studied Fernanda’s expression.
Fernanda hesitated, but eventually admitted, “I won’t lie—I did think that at first.”
Judie let out a quiet snort, though it carried no trace of irritation or offense. Fernanda added, “But then I realized you’re no hypocrite. You don’t rely on deceit or tricks.”
Judie nodded, her eyes lighting up with approval. “Exactly. True strength lies in honesty and directness, not in schemes or manipulation.”
Fernanda found herself agreeing wholeheartedly.
Judie stifled a yawn, her fatigue beginning to show, and glanced at the clock. “I think it’s time for me to get some rest. A good night’s sleep is essential for maintaining one’s looks. You should get to bed early too,” she said, rising from the sofa. She cast a thoughtful look at Fernanda. “I’ll make sure breakfast is ready on time tomorrow. You’re so slender—it worries me that you’re skipping meals.”
Fernanda nodded softly.
In that moment, with her composed demeanor and downcast gaze, Fernanda seemed like any other gentle young woman. It was almost impossible to reconcile her with the steely, unflinching presence that most people knew her to be.
Love, Judie reflected, had an extraordinary power to reshape people. It softened edges and transformed individuals into someone completely new—just as it had done for her nephew and Fernanda. But love could also unearth chaos, dragging people to the brink of insanity, as Judie had once experienced firsthand.
Judie exhaled, the sound soft and pensive, as she bent down to pick up a magazine from the coffee table. Heading toward the stairs, she tossed a smile over her shoulder. “And by the way, a little extra weight would suit you just fine. In this family, we think that looks quite nice.”
Fernanda’s lips curved into a gentle smile. “Okay.”
Judie yawned again, a faint trace of amusement lingering in her expression, just as Cristian and Bobby descended the stairs. Bobby made his way to the kitchen to grab a drink, while Cristian lingered near the staircase, lifting a hand in a casual wave toward Fernanda.
The living room lights cast a bright glow, reaching even the stairs. Cristian stood on the steps, where the light met the shadows, one hand casually tucked into his pocket while the other extended toward Fernanda. His posture was straight and composed, exuding quiet confidence.
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As Fernanda approached, Cristian grasped her wrist gently, guiding her up the staircase. They made their way to the third floor, where Cristian pushed open the door to a room.
The suite was expansive, carrying an understated, minimalist design. The cool-toned walls and furniture gave the space a modern, subdued atmosphere, yet the soft yellow light from the wall lamps added a welcoming warmth that balanced the overall aesthetic.
Fernanda took in the space and asked curiously, “Is this the guest room?”
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