Chương 14 - Standing Tall
The grand foyer was quiet now, save for the soft hum of the crystal chandelier above.
Nico placed his large, calloused hands on the armrests of his wheelchair. He looked up at Adeline, who stood beside him, her hands ready to support him if he fell.
"You don't have to do this tonight," Adeline whispered gently. "Your body needs time to heal."
"I've waited six months," Nico replied, a rare, breathtaking smile touching his lips. "I'm not waiting another minute."
With a deep, guttural breath, Nico pushed down with his upper body while engaging his legs. His knees trembled violently, muscles straining under the new sensation, but he pushed higher.
Slowly, agonizingly, thirty-four-year-old Nico Alfieri stood up on his own two feet.
He swayed slightly, his tall, imposing frame towering over the room once more. Adeline stepped close, placing her steady hand against his waist to balance him.
Nico looked down at her—at the quiet private nurse who had seen through the lies, fought off a killer, and restored his life.
"I don't even know your full name," Nico murmured softly, his hand resting gently over hers.
May you like
"Adeline," she smiled, her brown eyes warm. "Just Adeline."
👉 How did Adeline's life transform one year after the night at the mansion?
