These peaceful and joy-filled days seemed to slip by all too swiftly.
The pair decided to host a gathering in honor of the twinsâ arrival, a celebration eagerly attended by a chorus of praises for the adorable infants.
Lucinda was adamant, however, that Nathan and Zenia kept vigilant watch over the babies, forbidding any undue closeness or touching from their guests.
As the gracious host, Lucinda stationed herself at the gate to greet her arriving visitors.
Among them, Cyrus made an entrance, handsomely attired and bearing a substantial gift.
Observing that he had come alone, curiosity piqued, Lucinda inquired.
âNoelle isnât with you? Did something happen?â
Cyrus sighed, a shadow of concern crossing his features, âLately, sheâs been consumed by her own affairs.
Itâs like someone whispered something into her ear, causing her to distance herself from me.
I canât help but feel that sheâs intentionally avoiding me.
â
Lucinda inquired further.
âDid you two have a disagreement?â
Cyrus shook his head.
âNo, we didnât argue.
I guess couples have their ups and downs, right? But sheâs never been this cold before.
I donât know whatâs come over her.
â
Lucinda asked, âDo you want me to ask her what happened for you?â
âForget it.
Itâs between her and me.
Iâll handle it myself.
â
Lucinda offered a compassionate pat on his shoulder, her tone earnest.
âYouâre the man, Cyrus.
Donât let things escalate to quarrels.
Sometimes, itâs best to humor and accommodate.
You wouldnât want to break her heart, would you?â
âYeah, youâre right.
â
Cyrus nodded with newfound resolve.
The conversation shifted to Hilliard, and Cyrus relayed an interesting piece of news.
âHilliard actually went to Forden last night, so he might not be able to make it here.
He asked me, however, to prepare a gift for your kids.
He said that he would buy more when he returned to Stastle.
â
Forden?
With curiosity, Lucinda asked, âHe doesnât have any important business in Forden.
What was he doing there?â