The CEO’s Unspoken Love (Eleanor and Derek) novel Chapter 188

Chapter 188

Eleanor POV

The afternoon sun cast long shadows across the Wells estate gardens as Margaret and I strolled along the stone path. Winter was giving way to spring, but the air still carried a biting chill. Margaret’s frail hand rested in the crook of my arm, her steps measured and deliberate. Despite her age, she retained that unmistakable Wells family elegance, her spine straight even as her body grew more delicate with each passing season.

“The hellebores are beginning to bloom,” I said, pointing to the nodding white flowers emerging from beneath the melting snow “They’re called Lenten roses, though they’re not actually roses at all.”

Margaret smiled. “You always notice the things others overlook, Eleanor.”

The wind picked up suddenly, rustling through the dormant rose bushes and sending a shiver through my body. I pulled my cardigan tighter around my shoulders, wishing I’d worn something warmer.

“You two should come inside, called a deep voice from behind us. “The weather report mentioned another cold front moving in.”

I turned to see Derek approaching, his shoulders broad beneath his charcoal coat, his steps purposeful across the garden path. My heart performed its usual traitorous flutter at the sight of him, a reaction I couldn’t seem to control despite everything that had

happened between us.

Without a word, Derek slipped his cashmere coat from his shoulders and draped it around mine. The fabric was still warm from his body, carrying his familiar scent-sandalwood and something uniquely him.

“The wind’s getting stronger,” he said, his fingers lingering momentarily on my shoulders. “You’ll catch cold.”

I looked up at him, surprised by the gesture. “What about you? Aren’t you cold?”

A small smile played at the corners of his mouth. “I am. But I’d rather you weren’t colder.”

My breath caught at the simple honesty in his voice, so different from the aloof Derek I’d grown accustomed to during our marriage.

Margaret watched our exchange with interest, her eyes twinkling. “Well, it seems my grandson has finally learned to be considerate.”

Her tone was light, but I caught the weight behind her words.

Only a little late, perhaps, I murmured, not quite meeting Derek’s eyes.

‘Late? Derek’s gaze was steady on my face. “I don’t think so.”

Our eyes locked for a moment too long, and I was the first to look away, unsure of what to make of this new attentiveness. The

wind gusted again, stronger this time, sending a shower of dried leaves skittering across the path.

Margaret patted my hand. Let’s go inside, dear. It really is getting too cold out here.”

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Chapter 188

In the warmth of the sitting room, I helped Margaret arrange a winter bouquet, my hands moving with practiced precision as I

trimmed stems at angles to maximize water absorption.

“These white dendrobium orchids are perfect for Boston this time of year,” I explained, carefully positioning a delicate bloom. They represent purity and endurance. I paired them with red berries, silver-leaved foliage, and pine branches, creating texture and

contrast.

“Winter arrangements need layering and textural contrasts, I continued, finding comfort in discussing my craft. The eye needs

something to explore when the garden palette is limited.”

Margaret watched with admiration. “The customers at Four Seasons Florals are fortunate to have you as their florist.

From the doorway came Derek’s voice. “It’s more beautiful than those overpriced imported arrangements.”

I didn’t look up, focusing instead on securing a particularly stubborn branch. “Natural materials have an authenticity and

seasonality that can’t be replicated.”

When the arrangement was complete, I retrieved Margaret’s favorite book of poetry from the side table. She settled into her armchair as I began reading Frost’s verses, my voice soft in the quiet room. Soon, Margaret’s eyes began to droop, her breathing

deepening into the rhythm of a light doze.

I continued reading softly, aware of Derek standing by the window, his reflection in the glass revealing that his eyes hadn’t left me

once.

The family gathered in the living room after Margaret’s nap. I adjusted the knitted shawl around her shoulders, making sure she was

comfortable.

“Do you treat my grandmother better than you treat me?” Derek asked, his tone playful as he leaned against the mantelpiece.

I reached for a white carnation from the vase on the side table, but Derek moved to block my path, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

“What will you give me for it?” he teased, holding the bloom just out of reach.

“Give you?” I echoed, arching an eyebrow.

Derek’s smile was suggestive. “A smile, perhaps?”

I felt heat rise to my cheeks, aware of Catherine’s disapproving glance from across the room. She cleared her throat pointedly,

making her displeasure at Derek’s flirtatious behavior known.

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KIZA

The CEO’s Unspoken Love