18: Unspoken Battles

At the lush and private corner of the hospital, Lily stood face to face with Michael’s mother, Madam Stella, whose health had visibly declined. Her once vibrant features were now shadowed by illness, but her eyes lit up at the sight of Lily and Michael together. “Lily, come here,” Stella beckoned with a gentle smile. Lily approached, aware of Stella’s awareness of her personal struggles. The matriarch had been keeping tabs on everything, from the crisis at Amelia's company to the tensions within the manor. “How are you, Michael? The doctor emphasized the importance of your rehabilitation,” Stella inquired, her gaze shifting to her son. “I’m managing, Mother,” Michael replied tersely, his attention briefly lingering on Lily. Stella then turned her focus back to Lily. “And you, dear, how are you coping at the manor? Is Michael treating you well?” Lily hesitated, recalling Lily’s warning about what to reveal. She mustered a forced smile. “Everything is fine, Madam Stella