Marrying the Man in the Dark

Chapter 229 I Need to Grow

Damien knew that there was no deterring her once Cherise had set her mind on something. Yet, as a man, he couldn’t bear to witness his beloved facing the deluge of those rumors. He wasn’t afraid of trials or the judgment of others. His only fear was seeing her hurt.

“I believe you can and will protect me.” Cherise affirmed. She gently pressed her lips together, reached out to encircle his neck, and kissed his lips tenderly. “But, my love, this all began because of me. I can’t just sit here and wait for you to resolve everything on my behalf.”

Her eyes shimmered as she gazed at him. “You’ve done so much for me already, but I can’t keep sheltering myself behind you. I need to grow.”

“I need to be ready for anyone who might wish me harm.”

Damien, convinced by her words, could only release a deep sigh. “Alright.”

Amid his concern, Damien found solace in witnessing his once young and naive wife transforming into an independent and resilient woman.

“Hey, hey, love is in the air!” Lennon teased, cupping his cheek. “My teeth are about to fall out from all this sweetness.”

Jacob. “Jacob, save me! They’re drowning me in their love, and I’m here

a chuckle. “Looks like you’re having the time of your life as the third wheel.”

long, the hospital room door swung open. Jacob, sporting khaki pants and a light blue shirt leaned casually against the door frame. “Another third wheel

Cherise chimed in, her cheeks

between Lennon and Jacob, the conversation

that,” Jacob remarked, stifling a yawn. “He’d do

“You told me you wanted him to

accommodating

planning to visit the research. institute this afternoon to pressure the director into

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institute to award lan a Good Samaritan Award. The prize could support a less fortunate

child and spread false rumors, is

at Damien, “Have you decided what to

chair, maintaining his composed demeanor as he peeled grapes for Cherise. “Let them make a fuss. I doubt