When Time Tried to Heal Me But I Refused to Listen by Kael Niro Senn 66
When Time Tried to Heal Me But I Refused to Listen by Kael Niro Senn 66 Summary
In “When Time Tried to Heal Me But I Refused to Listen,” the chapter titled “Dinner With Details” revolves around Adriana’s complex emotions as she navigates her relationship with Curtis, her husband, and the implications of a luxurious bracelet he gifted her. As they share a meal, Adriana is initially overwhelmed by thoughts of her worth and the fear of rejection, stemming from her past experiences in foster care. The warmth she feels from Curtis’s kindness contrasts sharply with her insecurities, leading her to question why someone like him would give her such an extravagant gift.
During dinner, a pivotal moment occurs when Curtis remembers her dislike for dill, something her previous partner had overlooked. This small gesture triggers a flood of memories for Adriana, reminding her of past rejections and her struggle for acceptance. The narrative delves into her inner turmoil, revealing how her aversion to dill symbolizes deeper wounds of abandonment. The atmosphere shifts when Curtis receives a phone call inviting Adriana to a family dinner, which prompts her to confront her feelings about her role in their marriage and her desire to fit in.
At the Barton estate, the grandeur of the mansion amplifies Adriana’s feelings of inadequacy. She faces judgment from Kelsey Barton, who openly compares her unfavorably to Danielle, showcasing the societal pressures and expectations she grapples with. Yet, despite the disdain, the attention on the emerald bracelet serves as a reminder of Curtis’s affection and the protective stance he takes towards her. Adriana’s self-doubt is palpable as she questions the bracelet’s value, feeling embarrassed by her ignorance.
The chapter captures a blend of emotions—hope, insecurity, and the desire for validation—as Adriana confronts her past while attempting to embrace her present. Curtis’s kindness offers a glimmer of hope, but it also stirs fears of becoming too attached and the potential for heartbreak. Ultimately, the narrative explores themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of love, leaving Adriana in a state of contemplation about her future with Curtis and her own self-worth.
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**When Time Tried to Heal Me But I Refused to Listen**
by Kael Niro Senn
**Dinner With Details**
“Not really.” Curtis’s voice was calm, almost dismissive as he deftly plated some food for Adriana without addressing the price of the bracelet. His focus was entirely on her, a subtle kindness in his actions that made her feel a flicker of warmth.
Adriana allowed herself a moment to breathe, to let the tension melt away as she concentrated on the meal laid before her.
It can’t be that expensive, can it? What if it breaks while I’m wearing it?
She bit her lip, her thoughts spiraling. After all, I’m just a contract wife. Why would he give me something so extravagant?
“Wow! These ribs taste amazing!” she exclaimed, taking a generous bite of the barbecue ribs. The explosion of flavor danced across her palate, igniting her senses.
So this is what expensive ribs taste like, huh?
Curtis merely smiled, his eyes twinkling as he continued to serve her with a quiet confidence.
As the savory aroma filled the air, Adriana became acutely aware of her own chatter, suddenly feeling self-conscious. She lowered her gaze to her plate, intent on eating in silence.
If I keep living like this, will I just lose myself?
“Try this.” Curtis’s voice broke through her thoughts as he placed a piece of roasted cod on her plate. “The chef didn’t use any dill or parsley, just a hint of minced garlic.”
Adriana’s cheeks puffed slightly as she chewed, her hands pausing mid-motion.
She looked up at Curtis, astonished.
He actually remembers I don’t like dill.
It struck her then, the realization that even Matthew, who had been in her life for four long years, had never noticed her aversion to dill.
The memory of her childhood flooded her mind—when she was just ten years old, taken in by her second foster family. Afraid of rejection, she had forced herself to eat a casserole laden with dill, parsley, and blue cheese. The smell had made her stomach churn, and later, in the safety of the bathroom, she had vomited until her body was empty.
And yet, her foster parents had not kept her, despite her compliance.
The following year, they welcomed a baby of their own.
So, Adriana was returned to the group home.
Since that day, her distaste for dill had become more than just a matter of taste; it was a reminder of deeper wounds. Each time she caught a whiff of it, she was transported back to feelings of rejection and abandonment.
Just then, Curtis’s phone rang, slicing through the heavy silence like a knife.
Adriana blinked, instinctively lowering her head to resume eating. Maybe Curtis just doesn’t like dill or parsley either…
“Hello?” Curtis stepped away, his tone professional yet concerned.
“Adriana isn’t feeling well,” he said, his brow furrowing slightly at the response he received. “Got it.”
When he hung up, his gaze shifted back to her. “Jeremy invited you to the Bartons’ family dinner. Do you want to go?”
He was checking in with her, giving her the choice. “If you don’t want to, it’s perfectly fine to skip it.”
“Was this Harold’s idea?” Adriana ventured, piecing together the puzzle. It had to be him who made the call.
Curtis remained silent, his expression unreadable.
“Then I’ll go,” she declared, a smile breaking across her face as she looked at him. “I’m fine.”
Curtis inhaled deeply, glancing at the schedule as if weighing the options. “I’ll get you back to Haldoria as soon as possible.”
Adriana nodded, feeling a sense of acceptance wash over her. This was merely a part of her role; she had no reason to feel wronged.
Curtis doesn’t need to worry so much about my feelings.
If he continues to be this kind, I might start dreaming of things I shouldn’t be hoping for.
At the Barton Estate.
The Bartons’ residence loomed ahead, a sprawling mansion that echoed the grandeur of a 20th-century castle, creating an almost surreal ambiance, as if she had stepped into a film set.
“Mr. Lincoln, this way please.” A maid stood waiting outside, gesturing for Curtis to follow her to the men’s side of the house.
Adriana trailed behind another maid, her heart racing as they made their way to the designated area for female guests.
“Curtis! It’s been half a year, hasn’t it? How’s everything? Is the Lincoln Group doing well?” A jovial voice broke through the air as Chandler Barton, Jeremy’s illegitimate son and Danielle’s father, approached Curtis with an easy smile.
With Jeremy’s legitimate son and daughter-in-law having passed away in Haldoria, Chandler had taken on the role of host, a position he wore like a crown.
Adriana studied Chandler for a moment, an involuntary shiver racing down her spine.
Shaking off the feeling, she made her way to a nearby couch and sank into its plush embrace.
“So you’re Adriana?” Kelsey Barton, Chandler’s wife, scrutinized her with a gaze laced with disdain. “You’re nothing compared to Danielle. I truly don’t understand what Curtis sees in you.”
Next to Kelsey, an elegant woman slowly set down her coffee cup, her eyes landing on Adriana’s wrist. “Wow, Curtis really went all out, giving her the emerald bracelet.”
Kelsey’s expression shifted subtly, a flicker of surprise crossing her features.
One bracelet, no matter how costly, paled in comparison to the vast Lincoln fortune—but Curtis presenting Adriana with this piece made a bold statement: she was cherished, and any who dared to provoke her would face his wrath.
“Is this bracelet… really valuable?” Adriana asked quietly, her voice barely above a whisper.
She felt a twinge of embarrassment; her knowledge of emeralds was limited at best.
“Do you have any idea how much the Lincolns paid for your emerald bracelet at the Haldoria auction over a decade ago?” the elegant woman asked lightly, a smile playing on her lips. “That entire emerald set, including this bracelet, a cabochon ring, and a simple pendant, was priced at 500 million.”
Conclusion
In this chapter, Adriana experiences a profound shift in her emotional landscape as she navigates the complexities of her new life and relationships. The simple act of Curtis serving her dinner becomes a pivotal moment, allowing her to confront the remnants of her past traumas. As she reflects on her childhood and the feelings of rejection tied to her aversion to dill, she begins to recognize the significance of Curtis’s kindness. His attentiveness, especially in remembering her preferences, stirs a flicker of hope within her—a hope that perhaps she is deserving of care and affection, despite the shadows of her history. This realization ignites a subtle transformation, as she starts to embrace the possibility of connection and belonging, even if it feels foreign.
As they arrive at the Barton estate, the contrast between the opulence surrounding her and her own insecurities becomes starkly apparent. Kelsey Barton’s disdainful scrutiny serves as a reminder of the judgment she has faced, but it also highlights the protective stance Curtis has taken on her behalf. The revelation of the bracelet’s worth amplifies this notion; it symbolizes not just material value but also the recognition of her worth in a world that often overlooks her. In this moment, Adriana stands at the precipice of change, grappling with the duality of her role as a contract wife and her burgeoning sense of self. The chapter closes with her tentative acceptance of this new reality, hinting at the emotional healing that may lie ahead if she dares to let herself be seen and valued.
What to Expect in Next Chapter?
In the next chapter, readers can expect a whirlwind of emotions as Adriana navigates the complexities of her new life within the opulent world of the Bartons. As she grapples with her feelings of inadequacy and the weight of her past, the family dinner will serve as a backdrop for critical revelations and confrontations. The tension between her and the Bartons will escalate, particularly with Kelsey’s disdainful remarks, forcing Adriana to confront her insecurities head-on. Will she rise above the judgment and assert her place, or will the shadows of her past continue to haunt her?
Moreover, the chapter promises to delve deeper into Curtis’s character as he continues to show a protective side towards Adriana. His actions at the dinner will reveal not only his feelings for her but also the potential challenges they may face as a couple in a world rife with scrutiny and familial expectations. As the evening unfolds, unexpected alliances may form, and secrets could emerge that will test the fragile bond they are beginning to build. Readers will be left on the edge of their seats, eager to discover how Adriana will handle the pressures of her new reality and whether she will finally allow herself to embrace the possibilities of love and acceptance.
Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.