The Promise of Happiness novel Atalie and Samuel

Chapter 45

Natalie was so concerned and anxious that she failed to catch the guilt that flashed through Franklin’s eyes.

“Lift your shirt,” she ordered.

Franklin’s eyebrows furrowed. He was hesitant as he was unsure why Natalie wanted him to do that. Moreover, he did not know whether he should obey or not.

The boy glanced toward Samuel, silently pleading him to give an order.

Samuel narrowed his eyes. “Didn’t you hear what Ms. Nichols said, Franklin?”

Without further hesitation, Franklin gritted his teeth and did as he was told.

After feeling around his stomach, Natalie realized that the child in front of her was faking his stomachache.

She looked into his eyes and maintained eye contact for a few seconds until he lowered his head and averted his gaze.

How could he fake his sickness just to see me? He would get accused of crying wolf if he repeatedly does this. What will happen if he actually falls sick, and the Bowers family ignores him?

Franklin was not sure what to do. The sight of Natalie remaining silent made him even more anxious than he was before.

he stuttered. “You’re really my medicine!

chose not to expose him. “It might be a mental stomachache. Drinking more

released breaths of relief after hearing what Natalie

Bowers, could

on the doorframe, nodded

get the water.

that moment, the only people remaining in the children’s

lying is not the right thing

made Franklin nervous all over again. “Natalie,

isn’t the right way,” she said, her tone serious. “I’m not mad, but I’m definitely disappointed. I care a

that, Franklin’s expression immediately fell. He could not even think of anything to refute

head hung low,

Natalie,” Franklin

your mistakes is

hesitated. After mustering up all his courage, he continued, “Sophia and I would like to see you every day. Could

Sophia was unable to speak, her lively eyes were filled

on the receiving end, was shocked by

in? With