Nathan wordlessly touched her waist with his slender fingers, his intent unmistakable.
Lucindaâs mood soured instantly.
The anticipation of being intimate with Nathan last night had been fueled by days of separation and an intense longing for his presence.
But today, she didnât want the discomfort in her waist, especially since she had already been exhausted and thoroughly satisfied from the previous night.
She gently tapped his head with her finger and spoke.
âNathan, come on.
Wasnât last night fulfilling? Itâs been challenging for you to return.
You should spend time with Colby and Destinee, and your grandfather is unwell, so he also needs your visit and comfort.
â
Nathan hid the frustration in his eyes, unable to argue against the necessity of visiting his grandfather and spending time with Colby and Destinee.
Lucinda hadnât visited the N&L Fairy Land for days.
With the fridge lacking fresh food, she realized she needed to venture out for groceries if they were to have a meal.
Finding it troublesome to cook, Lucinda decided to have a meal prepared by Nortonâs chef at his villa with Nathan.
With several days having passed since they last saw Colby and Destinee, Lucinda noticed how rapidly the two children were
growing.
As Nathan embraced his babies, he couldnât help but feel their increased weight, a testament to Nortonâs attentive care.
However, the days apart had left Nathan with a tan, and Destinee seemed unfamiliar with him.
Her immediate frown and cries struck a chord of distress.
Nathanâs expression darkened as he cradled his daughter, feeling utterly at a loss.
Lucinda intervened, gently taking Destinee from his arms and soothing her.
She addressed Nathan.
âSee, itâs because you havenât been around much for the babies.
Destinee doesnât recognize you anymore.
You need to be more present, or your role as their father will become uncertain.
â
Nathan remained silent, skeptical of Lucindaâs words as he lifted Colby from his crib.
A moment ago, Colby had been smiling, his bright eyes fixed on Nathan, seemingly realizing something before he erupted into tears, even louder than Destinee.
Nathan felt speechless.
Sensing their displeasure at his presence, he contemplated leaving.
Less patient with Colby than with Destinee, Nathan raised his eyebrows and scolded in a low voice, âStop crying! You donât even know your father.
When you grow up, Iâll send you to the National Security Bureau for rigorous training!â
Colbyâs cries intensified, tears streaming down his cheeks in fear.
Nathanâs expression darkened.
âIf you donât stop crying, Iâll give you a spank!â
Lucinda, feeling a surge of anger, gently returned Destinee to her crib and decisively took Colby from Nathanâs arms.
âCould you please show more patience? Our son is still very young, yet youâre already eager to train and spank him.
It almost seems like youâre seeking punishment from me, doesnât it?â
âRemember the last time, during your manic disorder, you lashed out at me with the belt out of frustration? The pain still lingers, Lucinda.
Are you really going to punish me?â Nathan asked.
This was his trump card.
Lucinda found herself speechless, caught in a dilemma.
As guilt flooded her, she realized her anger had led her to utter words she didnât truly mean.