The Sway and Slide of Love

This was Noelle's first time visiting the nursing home where Ophelia lived. And barring any unexpected circumstances, it would likely be her last.

Rosie was also visiting such a place for the first time, her eyes wide with curiosity as she looked around. She turned to Noelle and asked, "Mommy, why are all the people sunbathing over there so old?"

"Because this is a nursing home. It's where elderly people live."

"Where are their children?"

"Probably working outside," Noelle answered.

"They don't stay with them? That must be so lonely for the old people."

After Rosie said that, Grant, who was leading the way, glanced back at them. Noelle didn't respond, only tightening her grip on Rosie's hand.

Beatrice had come with them today, but she had no intention of seeing Ophelia. She knew she wasn't the person Ophelia wanted to see in her final moments, so she waited outside the room.

"Ms. Swanson, this way, please," Grant said, as respectful as ever.

Only then did Noelle lead Rosie inside.

In Noelle's memory, Ophelia had always been a strong, resilient woman. Despite

her age and the pain of losing both her husband and son, she had remained tough and unyielding. Yet, the person lying on the hospital bed now was emaciated and frail.

The moment Rosie saw Ophelia, she was so scared that she immediately shrank back behind Noelle.

Ophelia's eyes, which had been lifeless, lit up when she saw them. Then, she struggled to sit up. "Are you Hendrix's child?"

Rosie stayed hidden behind Noelle, not speaking.

Finally, Noelle gently prompted her, "Rosie, say hello to your great-grandmother."

Rosie licked her lips and finally said, "Hello, Great-Grandma."

Ophelia immediately responded, nodding repeatedly. "Good, very good. You're so beautiful."

Then, she turned to Noelle. "Thank you for letting me see Rosie at a time like this. Now, I can die without regrets."

Noelle didn't say anything. She simply met her gaze quietly.

After a pause, Ophelia continued, "I know you all resent me for what happened back then. You all think I favor Nathan, but-"

"You're mistaken," Noelle said. "Hendrix and I are no longer together. The only reason I brought Rosie to see you today is to fulfill your wish. That's all there is to it."

Noelle's tone was calm and composed.

It immediately dawned on Ophelia that this visit was nothing more than an act of pity from Noelle. She had lived a life of prestige, never

imagining she would end up inge

a state. The thought was almost laughable.

She closed her eyes briefly before speaking again, "Regardless, I'm grateful you came to see me."

Then, her gaze shifted to Rosie. "Come closer. I have a gift for you."

Rosie stayed where she was.

Noelle glanced at her, then stepped forward. "You can give it to me. I'll make sure she gets it."

"Alright." With trembling hands, Ophelia reached for the drawer beside her bed. Soon, she placed a document in Noelle's hands.noveldrama

"This is a share transfer agreement for Amity Group," she said. "It's only five percent, but it's the only thing I can give to Rosie."

Noelle frowned. She was about to turn down the gift, but Ophelia cut her off, "No matter what, she is a descendant of the Freeman family and also my first great-grandchild. I'm about to die, so please consider it my final wish."