Chapter 592
Mornings in Marigoldia always started quietly.
Zoey groggily opened her eyes, the daylight already streaming through the sheer curtains of the floor-to-ceiling windows, filling the room with a soft glow.
She tilted her head slightly, her gaze falling on Henry's face beside her, who was still fast asleep.
His eyelashes cast tiny shadows in the morning light, his breathing steady and deep.
Zoey moved gently, not wanting to disturb his sleep, but the rustling of the sheets made a small sound.
Henry reached out almost reflexively, pressing the palm of his hand against her forehead.
His hand was warm and dry, a comforting presence.
"Your fever's gone," Henry's deep, sleep-laden voice murmured, his eyes now open and focused on her. "You feeling okay?"
Zoey shook her head, her hair making a soft sound against the pillow.
She reached out and held Henry's wrist, feeling the steady beat of his pulse.
"I slept well last night. I'm fine now, no more dizziness."
Henry's brow finally relaxed completely.
He propped himself up and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead, then moved down to find her lips.
Zoey closed her eyes, feeling his breath deepen.
"Mom!" The door burst open, and two small figures rushed in, eager and excited. "Are you feeling better?"
Henry froze mid-action, and Zoey could see the vein pulsing at his temple.
But he took a deep breath, sat up, and put on his usual gentle expression for the kids.
Gabriel and Travis jumped onto the bed, one hugging Zoey's neck, the other climbing onto Henry's back.
Three-year-old Gabriel and Travis were bursting with energy, especially in such an exotic vacation spot.
"Mommy's all better," Zoey said, smiling as she pulled the kids into her arms and kissed their rosy cheeks. "Did you sleep well last night? Did you listen to Daddy?"
"We were super good!" Travis raised his little hand, his eyes sparkling. "Daddy said we can build sandcastles on the beach today!"
"Mommy, will you come with us?" Gabriel tugged at Zoey's sleeve, his eyes full of hope.
Henry cleared his throat. "Mommy just got over a fever. She needs to rest."
"It's okay," Zoey interrupted, ruffling Gabriel and Travis's hair. "Mommy promises to go with you after breakfast. Now, go with the nanny to brush your teeth and wash your face, okay?"
Gabriel and Travis cheered, jumping off the bed and running hand-in-hand to the nanny waiting at the door.
After the door closed, Henry sighed and pulled Zoey into his arms.
"Are you sure you don't need another day to rest?" His fingers ran through her hair, his voice low. "You had a fever last night."
Zoey leaned against his shoulder, breathing in his familiar scent.
"It's just a little cold. Besides," she looked up at him, a mischievous smile playing on her lips, "isn't Dr. Cooper here to take care of me?"
Henry chuckled, pinching her nose lightly. "Ms. Spencer, please mind your words. I'm very serious about taking care of my patient."
They laughed together, then got out of bed.
Zoey walked to the window and pulled back the curtains.
In an instant, the breathtaking morning view of Marigoldia was revealed.
The azure sea sparkled with golden flecks in the morning light, and the pristine beach was dotted with the footprints of early-rising seabirds.
In the distance, rows of overwater villas stretched along the reef, each with its own private platform.
Their villa was in the quietest corner of the resort, surrounded by lush tropical plants, offering both privacy and an unbeatable view of the ocean.
"It's beautiful," Zoey whispered.
Henry wrapped his arms around her from behind, resting his chin on her head. "Not as beautiful as you."
Zoey nudged him with her elbow but couldn't help smiling.
She turned and picked up her phone, dialing Franklin's number.
The call was quickly answered, Franklin's voice filled with concern, "Zoe? How are you feeling?"
"Dad, I'm fine now," Zoey said softly. "The fever's gone. It was just a regular cold."
A relieved sigh came from the other end. "That's good. Is Henry taking good care of you?"
Zoey glanced at Henry, who was picking out clothes from the wardrobe, a smile tugging at her lips. "Yes, he's very attentive."
"That's good." Franklin paused, his voice lowering. "By the way, I found some information about Helena."
Zoey's expression turned serious. She stepped onto the balcony, ensuring the kids wouldn't overhear. "What did you find?"
"The tax issues at Honghe Film and Television are worse than we thought."
Franklin's voice carried a hint of triumph. "If Helena can't resolve it, she might turn to her backers for help. Then..."
"We'll find out who's supporting her," Zoey finished, her fingers tapping the railing. "Dad, who do you think it could be?"
"Hard to say," Franklin mused. "But whoever it is, they must be powerful to let Helena target our family so boldly. Be careful, especially with the kids."
Zoey glanced back at Henry, who was gently helping Gabriel with his clothes.
"We're safe. Henry's made sure of that."
They chatted a bit more before Zoey hung up.
She stood on the balcony, taking a deep breath of the salty sea air.
In the distance, a few yachts were slowly heading out to sea, their white sails stark against the blue sky.
"What did Dad say?" Henry joined her, handing her a glass of warm water.
Zoey took a sip. "He found out Helena's company has serious tax issues. If she can't fix it, she might seek help from her backers."
Henry squinted, looking out at the horizon. "The truth is finally coming to light."
He turned to Zoey. "Don't worry. I've arranged for 24-hour protection. Just enjoy the sun and sand on this vacation."
Zoey nodded, smoothing the crease on his forehead. "I know. Let's go, the kids must be getting impatient."
They got ready and headed to the resort's main restaurant with Gabriel and Travis.
The tropical garden along the way was in full bloom, the air filled with the scents of jasmine and roses.
Gabriel and Travis ran ahead, stopping occasionally to observe a lizard or a colorful bird by the path.