The Scarred Queen's Rise (Athena) novel Chapter 218

Chapter 218

Willow greeted Nicolas with a graceful smile and said, “What brings you here today, Nicolas?”

Willow gracefully lifted the pot and poured Nicolas a steaming cup of coffee, her movements gentle and attentive.

Nicolas had no choice but to withdraw his hand and sat down across from her. He said, “I should’ve visited you sooner, but I’ve been swamped with official business. I finally got some free time today.”

With that, Nicolas drew a small box from the folds of his robe and placed it on the table. “Open it. Do you like what you see?”

Willow picked up the box and opened it, only to find a delicate case of blusher inside.

Willow’s face lit up with delight. She brought the blusher close to her nose, taking in its fragrance, then nodded eagerly. “I love it. Anything you give me, Nicolas, I’ll always cherish.”

Seeing Willow act so adorably, Nicolas couldn’t help but burst into laughter. “You’re not a little girl anymore, you know. In just a few days, you’ll be married into the Osborne family.”

Nicolas let out a soft sigh, his voice tinged with nostalgia. “How time flies. You’re already getting married.”

Willow grinned and said with a laugh, “Nicolas, you’re starting to sound just like Mother. Even after I’m married, I’ll always be your little sister.”

Nicolas’s gaze flickered momentarily, his expression growing distant for a brief instant. Then, Nicolas let out a light chuckle. “You’re right. There’s one more thing I need your help with.”

Willow immediately straightened up attentively, her eyes shining with anticipation as she looked at Nicolas. “Just say the word, Nicolas. If it’s within my power, I’ll make sure to get it done for you.”

“Let’s hurry up with the fireworks workshop–the year–end is almost here,” Nicolas said.

Willow gave a knowing smile and said, “Even if you hadn’t come looking for me, I was planning to report my progress to you. I’ve already gathered all the materials. By year’s end, I’ll have a variety of fireworks ready. I won’t let you down.”

Nicolas heaved a sigh of relief. “I knew it–Willow, you’re the most capable of us all. Whether our family can turn things around this time depends entirely on you.”

Willow promised, “Don’t worry, Nicolas. People always set off fireworks on New Year’s Eve, but the usual ones are just too plain and uninspired.

“The fireworks I’ve made can change colors and display dazzling patterns–they’ll definitely help you steal the show at the palace party.”

“Very good.” Nicolas burst into laughter. “Willow, you are so amazing, always full of bright ideas. No wonder Mother dotes on you so much. It even makes me a little jealous.”

Willow’s eyes gleamed with shrewd confidence as she grinned at Nicolas. “Don’t you worry about a thing, Nicolas. I’ve got this.”

After seeing off Gale, Athena headed straight to the southern manor. She brought along a bundle of medicinal herbs and a special ointment for treating wounds,

When Athena arrived, she found Macy slowly eating her pasta.

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Fortunately, the maid was extremely attentive. Whenever she noticed sauce dribbling from Macy’s lips, she would gently wipe it clean.

Today, Macy had her hair neatly brushed and changed into a fresh, clean outfit, with the maid’s assistance.

Seeing Macy’s gradual recovery day by day, Athena finally felt her sense of guilt lessen slightly.

Athena entered with Trina in tow and called out softly, “Hi, Macy.”

Macy looked up, her eyes lighting up with joy at the sight of Athena. Struggling to form words, she managed to whisper, “Lady Athena-

Macy struggled to rise, but Athena quickly motioned for her to stay. “Don’t move. Just stay seated.”

“Here, let me do it,” Athena said with a gentle smile as she took the bowl from the maid.

The maid handed the bowl to Athena before quietly withdrawing.

The bowl held steaming soup, giving off a light, comforting fragrance.

Athena scooped up a spoonful of soup, blew on it gently, and held it to Macy’s lips. “Here, open up,” she said softly.

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