Nathan bore a striking resemnce to Nathaniel in both demeanor and appearance, mirroring even his aloof temperament.


    However, upon closer inspection, a subtle unfamiliarity marked his features.


    Moreover, the butler distinctly remembered that Nathaniel had passed away over a year ago.


    How could he just stand there?


    His heart full of mixed emotions, he turned to Lucinda with a forced smile.


    “Ms.


    Simmons, have you returned from Stastle specifically to visit Amanda and Vivien?”


    Lucinda responded with a light smile, “Yes, that’s right.


    ”


    “We are truly honored to have someone of your esteem remember us.


    Logan would have been delighted to know of your visit.


    ”Content (C) N?v/elDra/ma.Org.


    He quickly summoned the other servants to assist with the gifts Lucinda and Nathan were carrying.


    Lucinda added, “Later, you might bring a bouquet to Logan’s portrait and share news of our visit.


    ”


    “Certainly, I will,” the butler replied, his smile brightening.


    He then turned to Nathan, curiosity evident in his voice, “May I ask who this gentleman is?”


    Lucinda nced at Nathan, her eyes sparkling yfully.


    “This is my husband.


    ”


    “Ah, Mr.


    Payne from Stastle! I’ve heard much about you.


    You really do bear a resemnce… No, what I mean to say is, you are quite distinguished!” The butler caught himself mid-sentence, clearly still taken aback by Nathan’s resemnce to Nathaniel.


    Lucinda suppressed a chuckle, while Nathan stood silently by her side, his demeanor as reserved as ever.


    “Please make yourselvesfortable in the Living room.


    I will go and inform Amanda and Vivien of your arrival.


    ”


    “Thank you.


    ”


    Lucinda looped her arm through Nathan’s as they entered the vi together.


    ‘s BunnyBookery


    It had been over a year since herst visit, and the changes to the vi were striking.


    The roses that Amanda once cherished in the courtyard, all rare and expensive varieties, were now gone.


    In their ce was a lushwn,plete with a swing and a children’s slide.


    Inside, the living room that once housed Logan’s beloved antique furniture set was transformed.


    Plush fabric sofas reced the old chairs, and the coffee tables now had rounded corners, presumably to protect children from injury.


    Nathan surveyed the vi with a keen eye.


    Having lived there for over a decade and only been away for a year and a half, he found it unrecognizable.


    Everything from the furniture to the decor had been altered.


    Nothing remained of the life he once knew here.


    Lucinda watched his reaction silently.


    Their reflections were interrupted by the sound of hurried footsteps descending the stairs.


    Amanda, Vivien, and Franco, with the baby in his arms, hurried down to wee them.