Chapter 209 Defending Sovereignty
Kimberly stared at Lauren, wanting to say something but held back.
She knew Lauren's feelings for Quentin ran deep, but that was ancient history. She worried that Lauren hadn't let go of those old feelings.
Lauren had no clue about Kimberly's concerns. She was all about making Jessica happy and ensuring her remaining time was joyful.
Now, she was waiting at Ethan's villa, needing to ask him a few things.
It was late when Ethan finally got home. Kimberly had dinner ready, waiting for him.
Ethan shrugged off his coat, forced a smile, and walked over to Lauren.
"Hey, how are you? Did you get some rest today?" Ethan asked.
Lauren's smile was strained, her mind was still focused on Jessica.
"Ethan, Jessica's really sick. She doesn't have much time left," Lauren said seriously, watching his reaction.
Ethan was shocked but tried to stay calm.
"What? Have you seen her?" Ethan asked.
Lauren nodded in acknowledgment. She questioned, "Ethan, Jessica means a lot to me. You've been back to City A several times in the past three years. Didn't you know she was this sick?"
Lauren's voice grew more intense, shifting from calm to accusatory. Seeing Ethan's face pale, she realized she was being too harsh. After all, it wasn't his job to keep her informed.
"I'm sorry, Ethan. I was just worried," Lauren apologized.
Ethan looked sad. He said apologetically, "It's okay, Lauren. I should've kept up with Jessica's condition. I'm sorry for upsetting you."
"No, Ethan, it's not your fault. Jessica's been like family to me. Seeing her so sick today broke my heart," Lauren said, clenching her hands in pain.
"Lauren," Ethan started, wanting to comfort her, but seeing her distant look, he stopped.
He wondered if Lauren's concern for Jessica was just about their friendship or if Quentin was involved.
Lauren wiped her eyes, calmed down, and turned to Ethan.
"Ethan, how's everything at the company?" Lauren asked.
"Good. Those college kids are handling projects on their own now. You and Richard's hard work has paid off," Ethan replied.
Lauren looked a bit embarrassed. She asked hesitantly, "Ethan, if it's okay, I don't want to go to the office for a while. I'll take some urgent projects home. Is that alright?"
Ethan was surprised but didn't show it. He always supported Lauren's decisions, and this time was no different.
"No problem. You can rest at home. Richard and I will handle the company stuff," Ethan said.
Lauren sighed. She explained, "Ethan, I want to spend more time with Jessica. Matthew and my mom will be visiting often too."
Ethan tensed up, his expression turning awkward. After a moment, he forced a smile and looked at Lauren.
"Sure! The elderly need company. Just be careful with Matthew. Don't push him too hard," Ethan said lightly, though his mind was racing.
"Okay," Lauren replied softly and started to head upstairs.
Ethan watched her go, unable to hold back any longer. He muttered, "Lauren, Quentin will definitely show up at Robinson Estate. Have you thought about how to deal with him?"
Lauren froze, then turned around with a bitter smile. She said dismissively, "I haven't. I'm there for Jessica, not him. Don't worry, he won't bother us."
Ethan walked over, patted her shoulder, and said gently, "Quentin's always scheming. I'm worried he'll hurt you. I'll go with you."
Ethan's eyes were full of determination. He had protected Lauren for years and wasn't about to let Quentin get another chance to hurt her.
Of course, Ethan had his own reasons. He wanted to go to Robinson Estate to make it clear that Lauren was with him, leaving no room for Quentin.
Lauren didn't know what Ethan was thinking but was relieved at the thought of not facing Quentin alone. Quentin was too overbearing, and she wasn't sure if she could handle it. Ethan would be a good buffer.
"Okay, but what about the company?" Lauren asked.
Ethan smiled. He assured her, "The company's running smoothly. I could use a break."
Lauren's tense expression softened. She agreed, "Alright."
"Then I'll set up the visit to Robinson Estate for tomorrow," Ethan said with a smile.
"Okay, thanks. Let's eat first," Lauren said, then went upstairs to call Matthew down. They ate together, watched TV, and chatted like a happy family.
Ethan cherished these moments, wishing they could last forever. But ever since Lauren mentioned of her and Matthew going back to Robinson Estate, he felt uneasy.
The next day, Ethan got up early and had his secretary send over a bunch of nutritional supplements for Jessica. Kimberly praised Ethan's thoughtfulness, giving Lauren meaningful looks, hoping she wouldn't take his kindness for granted.
Lauren was touched by Ethan's efforts but had thanked him so many times she felt numb.
"Thank you, Ethan, but it's really not necessary. Jessica's old and sick. She probably won't take these vitamins," Lauren said.
"It's okay, Lauren. Whether Jessica uses them is up to her, but it's our choice to bring them. Besides, it's rude to show up empty-handed," Ethan said gently but firmly.
Lauren felt a lump in her throat. She thought Ethan's actions were too obvious.
