The Sway and Slide of Love by Jean Song

Chapter 650

Noelle didn't notice the Christmas present under her pillow until the next day. Inside the small box was a pair of earrings and a rosary. She stared at it for a while before silently putting the box back and getting out of bed to go downstairs.

Beatrice and Rosie were playing poker in the living room. Along with them were a few of the household staff. They were using pistachios as chips, and everyone seemed to be having a great time.

It seemed Rosie had won the round, as she was bouncing around excitedly. When she saw Noelle, her smile widened, and she ran over to share the good news.

"Mommy, I won again! Look! I won so many things!"

Noelle looked at her beaming face and instinctively wanted to praise her, but it felt like something was stuck in her throat, and no words came out. In the end, she could only force a smile, but even that wasn't convincing.

Because she could clearly see the excitement in Rosie's eyes fade as they met hers. Noelle hadn't wanted this to happen. She, more than anyone, didn't want to see Rosie sad or hurt. Yet, she simply couldn't control herself.

Beatrice eventually stepped in. "Alright. Your mommy hasn't had breakfast yet, and Ruby is still waiting for you to continue the game. You've won so much already-you're not thinking of running away, are you?"

never run away!"

glance toward Noelle, reluctant to leave. But in the end, she chose

was, watching Rosie leave. She knew she shouldn't be

in thought, Beatrice's voice suddenly came through, "It's

"Rosie is a good girl, and she's your daughter, after all. So, I'm sure she'll understand

at her. "I saw the rosary, too. I'm really

laughed. "So that's why... I was wondering why Hendrix

stared at her,

the rosary was

Noelle realize something was

voice

"You've already guessed, haven't