My coldhearted ex demands a remarriage

Chapter 585:

Daxton, sensing her discomfort, offered her a warm smile, his glance toward Melany a silent reassurance. The title wasn’t meant for her—it was simply a formality for the elders. Carrie, unable to reciprocate with “Nephew,” nodded politely instead.

Melany, now seated, patted Carrie’s hand. “I didn’t want to invite outsiders to today’s family dinner,” she said, her voice light but deliberate. “Among all the Norris relatives and friends, you are closer to Daxton. I thought having him here would keep you from being bored with just us old folks.”

Daxton stepped forward with an easy grace, his tone gentle as he replied, “Great-grandma, the fault is mine for not visiting you and Great-grandpa sooner. I’ve been back in Orkset for some time, but I should have come earlier.”

His words were polite, but Carrie understood their subtext. With Kristopher having severed the ties between the two families, Daxton’s visits might have been seen as inappropriate. He placed the gift bags on the coffee table, and Carrie instinctively reached out to help.

As her fingers brushed against his sleeve, the fabric slipped away before they could make contact.

It was just like the missed opportunities they had to be together. Daxton lowered his eyes, lost in his thoughts.

“What’s this?” Carrie asked curiously, glancing at the elegantly wrapped gift box on the table.

Daxton’s tone was calm and unassuming. “It’s a sleep-aiding incense I brought back from abroad. Its sweet, mellow scent is perfect for helping the elderly relax before bed.”

The elder members of the Norris family, once powerful figures who had commanded respect and authority, now often struggled with restless nights. For them, calming incense was more than a luxury—it was a necessity.

This particular incense was natural and far superior to medicinal alternatives. It smelled wonderful and offered numerous health benefits without any side effects.

In a family like the Norrises, where luxury was commonplace and material wealth was unimpressive, the most meaningful gifts were those that demonstrated thoughtfulness and care. Melany’s discerning eyes swept over the exquisite packaging.

She could tell at a glance that the incense was not only rare but incredibly valuable—something money alone couldn’t easily buy. Daxton’s modest explanation, devoid of self-promotion, only deepened Melany’s appreciation for him.

“You’re very thoughtful,” Melany said warmly, patting Daxton’s hand. She signaled a servant to take the gift box away for safekeeping.

As the conversation continued, Billie entered the room, her arms laden with shopping bags. Her face was lit with a bright smile, but when her gaze landed on Carrie, seated on the sofa, the smile faltered briefly.

A flicker of guilt crossed her features before she quickly composed herself.

“Take these to my room,” Billie instructed the maid, handing off the bags. Turning to Carrie, she replaced her hesitation with an awkward smile. “Oh, Carrie, you’re here.”noveldrama

Melany glanced at Billie, then laughed, taking Carrie’s hand. “Billie’s been shopping non-stop these past few days, coming home with bags full of things. I don’t know how she finds it so entertaining to shop alone. Carrie, when you have time, you should go with her and pick out whatever you like.”

Billie, usually compliant with Melany’s suggestions, offered a strained laugh and politely declined. “Mrs. Quinn and the others have been inviting me out recently. Carrie doesn’t usually enjoy those kinds of social gatherings. Melany, don’t trouble her with it.”

“If she wants anything, she can just have it delivered to Bayview Villa and charge it to my account.”

.

.

.