Chapter 277

Hilda returned from Regal Heights and threw herself into the warmth of her kitchen, a cherished cookbook spread wide before her like an open invitation.

For over twenty years, she had missed the chance to know Eleanor's favorite meals, each missed moment a quiet ache in her heart.

Now, she poured her love into learning new recipes,dreaming of the day she could hand-deliver a dish to her daughter.

Even if Eleanor held her at arm's length, the thought of her tasting her cooking was a soothing balm.

As she jotted notes in the cookbook's margins, Hilda called out with a playful spark, "Love, come tackle this fish with me!"

Jeff, sporting his cartoon apron similar to Hilda's,sauntered in with a vibrant tray of freshly sliced fruit. "Your sous-chef, reporting for duty," he teased,setting the tray down and wielding a knife with finesse to prep the fish.

Whether or not Eleanor chose to accept them,they still carried a profound sense of indebtedness to her.

They had made peace with the circumstances,resolved to embrace whatever path Eleanor chose.Her happiness was all that mattered to them.

Abruptly, the doorbell chimed through the villa,accompanied by the butler's exuberant announcement. "Mr. and Mrs. Benton, Miss Warren is here!"

Hilda's spatula slipped from her grasp, clattering to the floor.

She and Jeff shared a glance brimming with delight,hastening outside, their aprons still tied about them.

At the villa's gates, Eleanor stood beside Nolan.

Nolan carried an array of elegantly wrapped gift boxes,his demeanor warm and composed. Hilda's eyes were riveted on Eleanor.

She was truly here, returning to them at last.

Caught in a surge of emotion, Hilda instinctively wiped her hands on her apron before stepping forward, yearning to clasp Eleanor's hand yet pausing,uncertain.

"Eleanor, you... you've come home," she murmured,her voice quivering, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "Why didn't you let us know? I would have prepared all your favorite dishes."

Eleanor met Hilda's gaze, a whirlwind of excitement,slight apprehension, and overwhelming joy at their reunion shimmering in her mother's eyes.

She glanced at Nolan, standing steadfastly by her side.

He offered a reassuring nod.

With a throat tight with emotion, Eleanor softly uttered the words she had longed to say. "Dad Mom." Their stunned expressions prompted Eleanor to lower her eyes, her voice gentle as she continued,"Nolan and I would love to join you for dinner tonight.Would that be all right?"

At those words, Jeff and Hilda were swept away by a tide of elation.

Had they heard correctly?

Their daughter was acknowledging them, calling them Dad and Mom!

"Of course! Without question!" Hilda's tears of joy broke free as she enveloped Eleanor in a fervent embrace, her cheeks wet with emotion.

"My dear, what are you saying? This is your home-come back whenever your heart desires!" Jeff's voice trembled with feeling. This titan of industry,usually so commanding, now stood with eyes reddened by emotion, his words thick with unshed tears.

He nodded enthusiastically and turned to the butler with spirited instructions. "Quickly, prepare Eleanor's room with the finest linens!"

Then, he turned back to Eleanor, his tone softening."Eleanor, you and Nolan must stay the night. Don't even think of leaving!"

He murmured to himself, as if struck by a sudden thought. "Oh, and one more thing!"

He addressed the butler. "Arrange a grand feast! Let the world know my daughter has returned!"

The butler, his face alight with shared joy, eagerly agreed and turned to carry out the orders.

"Wait," Eleanor interjected softly, halting him with a gentle smile.

Amid the bewildered glances exchanged around her,Eleanor spoke with quiet conviction. "Dad, I don't want a grand banquet. A simple family dinner together is all I need."

Jeff felt a pang of disappointment ripple through him. He yearned to proclaim Eleanor's return to the world,to right the wrongs of the past two decades, and shower her with the love she deserved.

Yet, catching the faint shadow of reserve in her eyes,he softened, nodding with understanding. "Very well my dear. We'll do exactly as you wish."

Nolan, standing quietly to the side, observed the tender scene, his eyes reflecting a thoughtful depth.

Eleanor's heart still held a fragile barrier, not yet fully lowered. But that was alright-time was their gentle ally.