Chapter 187: Are You Imprisoning Me?
Alaric leaned in closer, glancing at the page Galatea was writing on. “What are you working on so intently?” he asked, his voice low.
Galatea, caught off guard by his sudden approach, jumped in her seat. “How did you come in so quietly? You scared me!” she snapped, frustration evident in her tone.
Alaric chuckled softly, his usual calm demeanor unshaken. “You were too focused. What’s all this?” he asked, eyeing the notes.
“I’m researching your life-saving medicine,” Galatea replied with an excited glint in her eye. “Josep just called. The American Medical Research Institute is working on a new capsule that could help with your condition.”
“Is that so?” Alaric’s interest piqued, though his expression remained unreadable.
“Yes,” Galatea said eagerly. “If the development is successful, you could just take a pill and feel better, without all the treatments and suffering.”
“So, does that mean I won’t need any more injections?” Alaric asked, his curiosity deepening.
Galatea shook her head firmly. “Not yet. Medical research doesn’t progress that quickly. If the development fails, we need to be prepared. I’ll give you the second shot tomorrow.”
Alaric sighed in mock resignation. “So, I’ll be useless again tomorrow? I suppose I should make the most of tonight.”
Galatea shot him a pointed look. “Can you think of something else for once? Don’t always have making love on your mind!”
Alaric laughed softly. “I don’t want to either, but you’re right there beside me. It’s hard not to think about it. You’re like… cannabis. Addictive.”
Galatea rolled her eyes. “Since you’re so focused on tonight, you’ll be bedridden for three days after the second shot.”
Alaric wryly smiled. “You’re a doctor, not a torturer.”
“I can have compassion for anyone,” she replied dryly, “but for you, I need to increase the dosage.”
Alaric feigned innocence, shaking his head dramatically. “Well, as your patient, I have no choice but to comply. As long as you’re happy.”
“Exactly.” Galatea smiled, then her tone shifted, becoming more tired. “I’m exhausted now. You still have energy, so take me to shower.”
She leaned back, feeling sticky and drained after their intimate time. She let Alaric take the lead, knowing she was too worn out to do anything herself.
Alaric didn’t hesitate, clearly more than willing to assist.
Back at home, Marigold sat alone on the sofa, her mind racing after her meeting with Ambrose. His words echoed in her head. She was torn, uncertain whether to act on his suggestion. The possibility seemed slim, but it was the only plan that offered any hope.
Harry entered the room, eyeing her curiously. “Grandma Marigold, what are you up to? Planning something mischievous again?”
Marigold looked up, startled. A mischievous glint appeared in her eyes, though it was tempered by a hint of seriousness. “Caspian, do you really think I’m that bad?”
Harry shrugged. “Not the worst, but if we’re talking about good people, you’re definitely not at the top of the list.”
Normally, Marigold would’ve been furious at such a frank remark, but Harry was her grandson, and somehow, his honesty warmed her heart.
She smiled slyly. “Well, you’ve been cooped up at home for days, bored out of your mind, right? How about I take you somewhere fun?”
Harry raised an eyebrow. “I do want to get out, but my butt still hurts. Walking’s tough.”
Marigold’s smile widened. “Then I’ll take you to a place where you won’t need to walk much.”
Harry looked skeptical. “Is there really such a place?”
“Of course. I’ll show you,” Marigold said, lifting him into her arms with ease, despite his protests. She quickly ushered him into a camper van, where he could rest in comfort.
“The destination is a bit far,” she said, settling him into the bed. “You can take a nap in the meantime.”
Harry, his curiosity piqued but feeling exhausted, closed his eyes. “I’ll take a nap. Wake me when we get there.”
Time passed. When Harry awoke, he groggily checked the time. Three hours had passed. He peered out of the window and froze. They were in the mountains.
His heart sank. “You’re a wicked woman. You’re not selling me, but you’re planning to abandon me here in these mountains?” Harry accused, his voice rising with panic.
Marigold chuckled softly. “How could I abandon you? I’m taking you to Tranquil Valley Mansion. We’re almost there.”
“Tranquil Valley Mansion?” Harry blinked in surprise.
“Yes.” Marigold smiled, her eyes shining with something unreadable. She had bought the mansion years ago, a fact even Alaric didn’t know. She’d planned to retreat there after her global travels but had never gotten the chance.
They arrived, and Harry was speechless at the sight of the grand mansion nestled in the serene valley, surrounded by lush greenery. It was majestic and quiet, unlike anything he’d seen before.
Marigold carefully helped him out of the van. “Do you like it?”
Harry took in the sweeping view. The mansion was gorgeous, with its impressive architecture and tranquil surroundings. “It’s… beautiful,” he admitted, though his unease was palpable.
Marigold beamed, clearly proud of the place. “I’ve arranged everything you need—doctors, servants, chefs, teachers, nutritionists. I’m even planning to build a large amusement park nearby for you. Anything you want to play with, just let me know.”
Harry’s eyes narrowed. “Wait a minute. What’s all this? Are you planning to make me stay here permanently?”
Marigold’s expression softened, though her voice was firm. “This place is perfect for your recovery. It’s calm, peaceful, far from the noise of the city.”
Harry frowned, still unsure. “I just have a fractured bone, not some life-threatening condition. Do I really need to stay here in the mountains to recover?”
Marigold’s tone grew more serious. “A fractured bone isn’t trivial, Caspian. It needs time to heal properly. If it doesn’t, you’ll have long-term consequences. The Knight family mansion and manor are in the city—too hectic for proper recovery. This place is the best for you.”
Harry frowned, still unconvinced. “Is there any way to communicate with the outside world here?”
“No,” she replied. “Not yet.”
Harry’s eyes widened in realization. “So this isn’t a recovery plan… You’re imprisoning me here!”
He struggled against her, anger and frustration bubbling up. “I want to leave. Now!”
Marigold stood firm, her resolve unshaken. “This is for your own good, Caspian. You’ll see that in time.”