The Heiress’ Return: Six Brothers at Her Beck and Call (Wynter Quinnell) novel Chapter 1465

Mathias was a new butler Wynter had brought back from Kingbourne.

His question stemmed from the fact that Ophelia was a Montclair and had never come to Quaint Villa alone before.

Despite her urgency, Ophelia maintained her calm exterior. She was very displeased with Mathias. "Am I not allowed to come by myself?"

"Of course you are. I spoke out of turn. It's just that Mr. Reuben just left, and I was concerned you might come in vain," Mathias spoke respectfully.

Ophelia knew she hadn't handled her own matters well, but she wasn't foolish enough to cause trouble for a mere butler. She only wanted to see Marie as soon as possible to discuss urgent matters. It was even more perfect with Reuben away.

"This is my own home. There's no such thing as coming in vain." Ophelia glanced at him. "Where's Marie?"

Mathias paused for a moment, his eyes lowering as if he was suppressing something. However, he still responded respectfully, "Ms. Whitman is in the kitchen preparing traditional medicine. I can take you to her."

Ophelia waved her hand dismissively. "Go back to your duties. I'll go to her myself."

Her steps quickened as she headed toward the kitchen. It was only a few feet away, and upon reaching the doorway, she called out, "Marie. You still look the same after all these years. It's truly enviable."

Marie turned her head over her shoulder upon hearing her name. "Oh, it's you, Ophelia. You flatter me. Are you here to see Dad? He just went out for a walk."

Ophelia shook her head. "I'm not here for Dad. I came to see you. It's been so long since we've last met. As your sister-in-law, I figured I should make time to visit you as soon as I heard you were back."

As she spoke, her eyes landed on the stove where a pot of traditional medicine was brewing. A flicker of disdain crossed her face. In her eyes, such tasks were meant for the maids.

She assumed Marie was doing this as she hadn't yet won Reuben's forgiveness, and this bolstered Ophelia's confidence.

Seeing that her words were having the desired effect, Ophelia pressed on and seized the opportunity.

"Marie, you know how it is. Noah and I only have Cyrus. It's natural for us to want to give him the best and help him avoid unnecessary hardships.

"I've been so tied up with family matters. I come over to take care of Dad whenever I have the chance, giving him massages and talking with him.

"Over the years, I've been trying to tell him it wasn't your fault, that you're her daughter and no one can deny that. I've always tried to help ease the tension. But no matter how hard I try, it doesn't seem to make a difference. Marie, I've really tried my best."

Maire offered a tissue to Ophelia for her tears. "Ophelia, I know you've done a lot for the family and Noah. I understand you."

"I knew you'd understand me." Ophelia lifted her gaze. "Then, I won't beat around the bush any longer, Marie. I wanted to talk to you about the piece of land Wynter secured…"