Nathan was pleased, seeing her fierce protectiveness.
He listened silently as she rebuked Selma.
Selma was taken aback and awkwardly shifted her address to Lucinda.
âI apologize, Mrs.
Payne.
Thereâs talk that Mr.
Payne is controlled by his wife.
It seems thereâs truth to it.
But why treat me as a foe? Excessive control over a man isnât flattering.
â
If Atticus were still alive and Lucinda and Nathan hadnât married, Nathan would certainly correct
Selma upon hearing the words âcontrolled by his wifeâ.
He would feel the need to prove his status in the family.
But now, he had no concerns.
He smiled and explained, âMiss Dixon, youâve misunderstood.
I havenât directed my attention solely to the family due to the kids.
All my affection and love were given to my wife long ago.
Even the babies arenât as significant to me as she is.
â
Nathan then entwined his hand with Lucindaâs and gazed into her eyes tenderly.
Selmaâs face turned pale.
âYour love for each other is truly enviable.
â
Nathan didnât even glance at Selma.
Keeping his eyes on Lucinda, he softly said, âHoney, Iâm tired.
Can we go home now?â
Looking into his eyes, Lucinda surprisingly agreed, âAlright.
â
Hearing her affirmative response, Nathan felt elated.
He scooped her up and silently left through the rear door.
Sitting in the car, Lucinda was unhappy.
Nathan sensed her discontent and innocently remarked, âHoney, you canât put the blame on me.
I donât know that woman.
Donât take it out on me.
â
She turned, fixed her gaze on him, and playfully pinched his cheek.
âYouâd better wear your silver mask whenever youâre out in the future.
I wonât be at ease until your handsome face is concealed.
â
Nathan chuckled at her jealousy.
âSure, but youâre equally beautiful.
Shouldnât you wear a mask as well, just in case another man tries to snatch you away from me?â
But she declined.
âI donât want to wear it.
Itâs so ugly.
â
He was at a loss for words.
Ugly? But he often wore a maskâ¦