Chapter 503 Caring for Charisa
Beckham, his eyes twinkling with amusement, approached Charisa with a steaming bowl of mushroom soup.
“I’m not here to disrupt your life, Charisa,” he stated with a charming smile. “I’m here to tend to my daughter’s mother; her wedding is just two days away, and you, as her mother, should be present,” he gently reminded her. “Your absence would be a disappointment to Cherise.”
Despite her frail appearance, Charisa’s eyes sparkled as she retorted at Beckham. Her demeanor, usually reserved and aloof, softened slightly during their exchange.
Cherise observed their interaction, a myriad of emotions swirling within her. She had always perceived her mother as a distant, unattainable figure. Despite knowing Charisa was her biological mother, Cherise felt a deep chasm between them.
Watching Charisa lean against the headboard, her expression a blend of frustration and vulnerability, Cherise couldn’t help but question her perceptions.
Perhaps there was more to her mother than met the eye. Perhaps, beneath her aloof exterior, Charisa harbored hidden depths of emotion.
Cherise thought of Damien, a man often perceived as standoffish and reserved. Yet, in her presence, he transformed into a playful rogue, always up to his mischievous antics.
Perhaps… this was the real Charisa, the person she revealed only to those she genuinely loved and considered equals.
As Cherise was lost in her thoughts, Beckham sensed the unusual mood in the air. Although slightly annoyed by Damien’s intrusion, he maintained his composure and addressed Charisa, “Our daughter is here, Charisa. Shouldn’t I take good care of you so you can be in top form for her wedding?”
When caught off guard by the unexpected suggestion, Cherise could only manage an awkward nod in response.
Charisa, laced with helplessness, protested, “It was just a simple cold-induced fainting spell. There’s no need for such a fuss.”
Cherise’s gaze darted to Beckham, their eyes meeting silently. Beckham’s expression was one of quiet appeal, urging for her cooperation.
Clearing her throat, Cherise addressed her mother, “But fainting from a cold can be serious, Mom You’ve been preoccupied with the wedding preparations and haven’t taken care of yourself.”
“Let Dad take care of you while I focus on the wedding details,” she suggested, her tone laced with concern.
Charisa’s face hardened into a frown. “I don’t need him hovering over me! I have Zac…
“Unfortunately, Zac has been roped in by me, too,” Cherise interrupted unapologetically.
Charisa was left speechless. Why was everyone hell-bent on having this shameless Beckham look after her?
Before she could complete her sentence, Damien interrupted Cherise, “Auntie, if you’re not entirely confident in Uncle Beckham’s ability to ensure your safety, I’ll be happy to step in as your caretaker and tend to my future mother-in-law’s needs.”
He paused, his gaze unwavering, “However, to provide the best possible care, I’ll need to review your medical history thoroughly.”
The man said, shaking his head in distress, “I remember there should be some records in the city library…
Damien’s words sent a chill down Charisa’s spine. She knew Damien would not be underestimated; his sharp intellect and resourcefulness were evident. If he set his mind to investigating her health, he would undoubtedly uncover the truth. And if he knew, so would Cherise. The consequences of such a revelation were too terrifying to contemplate.
Resigned to her fate, Charisa reluctantly agreed. “Do as you see fit…”
“After all,” she added, trying to keep her voice steady, “he’s practically got nothing but time on his hands. I’m sure he wouldn’t mind caring for things around here.”
“Sounds good,” Damien said with a smile, pulling Cherise close. “So, how about it? Do you want to stay with your parents for a while longer, or shall we head home first?”
