The Scarred Queen's Rise (Athena) novel Chapter 293

Chapter 293

Athena strode into the Mcgee family estate without so much as a backward glance.

From a distance, Michael stood rooted to the spot, gazing longingly at Athena like a lovesick statue.

Michael didn’t look away until Athena’s figure was completely swallowed by the towering walls of the Mcgee family estate, until not even a trace of her could be seen. Only then did he finally look away.

A sharp pain pierced his chest. It was the sound of his heart breaking.

He thought, ‘Does Athena detest me so much that she won’t even spare me a glance?

‘No matter. I have plenty of time and patience.‘

Now that Fermin had finally given his consent, Michael wasn’t about to let this golden opportunity slip through his fingers.

He would have Athena, no matter what.

The shadow guard asked in confusion, “My lord, you’ve been so protective of Miss Monson. Why not let her know someone’s been following her?”

Michael forced a bitter, self–mocking smile and shook his head. “There’s no need,” he replied quietly.

Michael thought to himself, ‘I don’t want Athena to think this is just some sympathy ploy.

‘As long as my heart stays true, Athena will eventually come back to me.

With one last lingering look in Athena’s direction, Michael turned his horse and rode away.

*****

Gale was delighted to see Athena and warmly motioned for her to sit. “My dear, the medicine you gave me has worked wonders. My cough has improved so much in just these few days,” she said with a smile.

Compared to her previous sickly pallor, Gale now had a rosy glow in her cheeks and seemed much more energetic.

Athena gave her a gentle smile. “Your Grace, you’ve improved significantly, but don’t get complacent. You still need to keep taking your medicine.”

“Got it, got it…” Gale hastily cut Athena off, dreading another lecture.

Gale looked at Athena with puppy–dog eyes and pouted, “Your medicine works wonders, I’ll give you that, but it’s just so bitter!”

Athena couldn’t help but laugh. She thought, ‘Who would have thought Gale would have such a sweet tooth?‘

Perhaps out of affection for Ferris, Athena found herself being especially patient with Gale. She coaxed gently, “Tell you what, next time I prepare your medicine, I’ll make some candied fruits for you.”

Gale immediately beamed like a delighted child. “That would be perfect!”

“Looks like we’ve got everything packed up. Why don’t we set off today?” Athena suggested with a smile.

Gale naturally had no objections. If not for Athena having unfinished business, she would have taken her to the hot springs resort long ago.

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Chapter 293

Everything had already been packed, so in less than half an hour, Athena and Gale were comfortably seated in their carriage, ready to set off.

Evening was falling when they finally reached Spring Villa.

The entire villa was nestled against the mountainside, complete with all the classic structures, pavilions, terraces, towers, and halls.

Steam rose and mist swirled through the mountains, wrapping the scene in celestial veils, as if they had stepped into an ethereal paradise.

Thanks to the natural hot springs, the vegetation here was noticeably lusher and greener than elsewhere.

Even flowers were blooming all around the villa, adding a splash of color to the lush scenery.

Athena helped Gale alight from the carriage, as a warm, flower–scented breeze greeted them.

Gale took a deep breath, enchanted. “What a marvelous place,” she praised.

The warm air filled Gale’s lungs, instantly easing the tightness in her chest.

Athena’s dark mood lifted as she moved in with Gale.

Even before they set out, someone had already been sent ahead to make arrangements.

A private courtyard residence had been arranged for Gale and Athena, with an arched gate dividing their living quarters.

There were natural hot springs in the backyard, ready for a soak anytime.

“The finest courtyard residence has already been reserved by another party,” the steward reported carefully to Gale. “Though this one is slightly more modest in scale, it still offers ample space for your comfort.”

Gale said with a hint of displeasure, “Who on earth could have rented such a grand courtyard? Is there really anyone whose wealth can rival that of the Mcgee family?”

Gale frowned in displeasure at having to settle for the second–best courtyard residence.

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