Chapter 8

"Don't rush off," my father-in-law called out to me, then instructed the butler, "Go fetch that box of ginseng and deer antler from the storeroom. Pick out some suitable tonics for the young mistress to take home." I gave him a grateful smile. In this household, apart from my bedridden husband, he was the only one who truly treated me as part of the Carter family. My mother-in-law shot me a frosty glance. "Before you leave, inform Ethan. I won't remind you next time. As the Carter family's daughter-in-law, you must report your whereabouts whenever you go out. Understood?" "Yes, Mother." After bidding everyone farewell, I headed up to the fourth floor. Mary was massaging Ethan's legs to stimulate circulation—a daily necessity since prolonged bedrest could impair his blood flow and nerves. "I'll take over," I said, relieving Mary of her task. Gazing at my husband's face—pale yet strikingly handsome—I couldn't help thinking: Were it not for his sudden mysterious illness, someone like me would never have qualified to marry the heir who once captivated all of Seavale. "You bring good fortune,"Mary remarked cheerfully. "Ever since you joined the family, his lucid periods have increased." Good fortune? I smiled bitterly. No, what I brought was misfortune. "Mary, I'm visiting my parents. If Ethan wakes up, please let him know." "Of course." Turning to leave, I found him already awake. His drowsy eyes met mine—deep and tranquil as autumn waters. My heart ached. After last night's events, I felt more unworthy than ever. Seeing his gaze upon me, tears welled up uncontrollably in my burning eyes. "Honey, you'll get better, won't you?" He remained silent, but a faint smile touched his lips. My heart ached unbearably, and I leaned in to embrace him. "Darling, you have to recover. I'll take good care of you." Get well soon—let all that filth and misery fade into the past. ... After her serious illness, Mother looked much more haggard. I supported her as we walked, keeping her company with lighthearted chatter to lift her spirits before helping her back to bed. She grasped my hand. "Helen, the only reason I recovered so quickly was because of the renowned specialist the Carter family recommended. You must behave well while you're with them." My nose stung with unshed tears as I nodded. "The Carters are a prominent family," she continued. "And prominent families... well, they have their own peculiar customs. Now that you're married into their household, you must learn their ways—serve your in-laws dutifully and care for your husband." She sighed softly. "I know your mother-in-law isn't fond of you, and it's our fault for letting you marry into such an unfair situation. But since she is your mother-in-law now, you must put in the effort. People's hearts aren't made of stone. If you fulfill your duties and attend to your in-laws properly, she'll come around eventually." I understood her worries. Marrying into the Carter family for money was already disgraceful enough. If I were to be cast out for failing to meet their expectations, my reputation would be ruined forever. "Yes, I'll remember that," I murmured. After tucking her in, I stepped out and headed downstairs. At the turn of the staircase, I found Father leaning against the windowsill, silently smoking. He had aged noticeably too—the company's troubles had clearly taken their toll. "Helen," he greeted me with a gentle smile. "Are things going well for you at the Carters?" Naturally, I kept my hardships to myself. "Everything’s fine, Dad. Ethan has been waking up more often lately—it must mean he’s improving. Don’t worry about me."