The Sway and Slide of Love

Hendrix had been staring at her. It wasn't until Noelle's words reached him that he snapped out of it and looked at her.

"Hadn't you always wanted to get her something?" Noelle asked. "Well, now's your chance."

"Would she want it?" Hendrix asked instead.

Noelle hesitated, then nodded. "I think so. Rosie's a simple child. She can tell who treats her well and who doesn't. She's not the type who holds grudges easily, so as long as you treat her well from the bottom of your heart, she'll accept you in no time."

Then, she looked at him and asked, "You do love her, don't you?"

Hendrix was clearly not used to expressing himself in such a straightforward manner. So, when Noelle finished speaking, he paused for a moment before slowly, yet solemnly, nodding.

Noelle smiled and said, "Then, she'll feel it."

"So, what should I buy?" Hendrix asked.

In the end, following Noelle's suggestion, Hendrix bought Rosie a brand-new set of paintbrushes and a collection of comic books.

When they arrived at Sienna Villa, Rosie was beyond excited. And when she realized Hendrix had also brought her a gift, she was momentarily stunned. She then turned to Noelle to seek her approval.

When she saw Noelle smile, she bit her lip. Then, she whispered a soft "thank you" and took the gifts.

Noelle understood Rosie well. She knew this was a sign that Rosie was beginning to accept Hendrix.

Soon, Beatrice walked up to Noelle. In her eyes, Noelle saw pity and relief.

Beatrice didn't say much. She just slowly walked up to Noelle and gave her a hug while gently patting her back.

Noelle simply stood there, letting her hold her. When Beatrice finally let go, Noelle smiled softly and said, "Thank you, and I'm sorry to have troubled you for taking care of Rosie.

"Nonsense! It's no trouble at all. Rosie's my granddaughter, after all. Having her here with me has been nothing but a joy."

As Beatrice spoke, something suddenly came to mind. She glanced at Noelle, whose expression was nothing out of the ordinary.

At that moment, Noelle was quietly watching Hendrix help Rosie unwrap the plushie she had given her. The plushie had a recording function, and Hendrix was helping Rosie test it out.

Rosie still wasn't entirely comfortable with Hendrix, but her curiosity got the better of her. So, she stood off to the side, eyes fixed on his every moment. The two of them looked surprisingly harmonious together.

"Everything will get better?" Beatrice quickly added, as if she knew what Noelle was thinking.

Noelle snapped out of her thoughts and turned to look at her.

Beatrice smiled and patted her on the shoulder again. Noelle met her gaze for a moment, then smiled back.

After dinner, Rosie threw a tantrum, insisting on going back with Noelle. But Noelle wouldn't let her.noveldrama

"Mommy hasn't been feeling well these past few days, so you need to stay here with Grandma for a bit longer. I'll come pick you up in a couple of days, okay?"

Still upset, Rosie repeatedly asked her, "You'll really come get me in a couple of days?"

"Yes."

"Mommy, don't lie. Pinky promise!" Rosie stuck out her little finger.

Noelle glanced down, then gently hooked her finger with Rosie's and pressed their thumbs together.

Only then did Hendrix take Noelle back home.