Before she could finish, Poppy cut in with a laugh. “Soren, don’t scare Macy. I know you’re not really that cruel.” 

She’d observed Macy’s behavior around the house; if Soren had actually wanted to get rid of him, he would have done it ages ago. 

Sure enough, Soren’s expression barely shifted as he glanced up. 

“Macy, even though you’ve lived here for years, I’d remind you not to forget your place.” 

“She’s my friend, and this is her house too. She’s here to rest, not to help you with your chores.” 

Macy let out a sigh of relief. 

He was just about to nod in agreement when Poppy chimed in. “Actually, Soren, I wanted to stay at the house. It was my idea.” 

Soren looked at her, a hint of confusion in his eyes. 

Poppy pressed her lips together. “Macy’s right about one thing. You’ve lost a lot of weight since Evangeline left. You need someone around to look after you. I’d like to step in for Evangeline and take care of you, at least until she comes back.” 

Soren hesitated, lost in thought. 

His mind drifted back to a recent dream. Evangeline was always so stubborn and jealous–if she found out Poppy was staying at the house, she might never come back. 

As if reading his mind, Poppy added softly, “That’s not the only reason… there’s something else.” 

She bit her lip, voice dropping. “The apartment you arranged for me is great, but I haven’t been sleeping well there. I’ve been feeling anxious living alone… a little scared, honestly.” 

Macy, sensing an opportunity, immediately jumped in. “Mr. Fawkes, I honestly think it’s a great idea for Miss Yates to move in.” 

“Think about it–she’s a beautiful young woman, single, and just returned from studying abroad. If she lives alone, there’s always the risk that someone with bad intentions might try something. She’d be much safer here at the house.” 

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Chapter 64 

As Macy finished, Soren was reminded of the time Poppy had traveled for work and nearly gotten into serious trouble. He hadn’t been able to help–he’d only heard about it after the fact, thanks to a frantic call from Evangeline. 

He could imagine how an experience like that would leave a lasting mark on any 

woman. 

But then, there was Evangeline… 

Reading the conflict on Soren’s face, Macy added, “Mr. Fawkes, if you’re worried about Evangeline, you’re overthinking it. She’s your wife, after all. Sure, she’s upset right now, but she won’t stay mad forever. She’ll come around.” 

“And besides, if Miss Yates is your friend, she’s Evangeline’s friend too. She can’t expect you to cut off all your friends out of jealousy.” 

“My own husband had his share of wild days when he was younger–I used to get so angry at him! But eventually, I realized, what man doesn’t stray a little? As long as his heart’s with me, that’s what matters… 

Macy was off on a familiar rant, but Soren waved her off and nodded. “Fine. Get the guest room ready.” 

He hadn’t taken in everything Macy had said, but she had a point. Evangeline was his wife. He had no intention of divorcing her, which meant they’d be together for decades–seeing each other every day, whether they liked it or not. 

If he caved every time she threw a tantrum and threatened to leave, what would happen the next time? Was he supposed to give in every single time?‘ 

As soon as Soren relented, Macy’s face broke into a wide, delighted grin. 

Having Poppy stay in the house was a godsend for her. 

The moment she and Poppy had started chatting earlier, Macy’s decades of life experience kicked in. She could tell that Poppy was hoping to win Soren’s heart through his stomach. 

Handing over the kitchen duties to Poppy solved all Macy’s problems in one fell swoop. 

Overjoyed, Macy turned to her with a beaming smile. “Miss Yates, why don’t you go upstairs and pick out a guest room you like? I’ll help you get it set up. If there’s anything you need, just let me know and I’ll take care of it.” 

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