Even in Darkness She Chose to Rise (Tatiana and Jasper) novel Chapter 203

**Even the Night Couldn’t Silence Her Light 203**

Marilyn entered the room, her smile warm yet tinged with the bittersweet traces of time. A few more lines had etched themselves around her eyes, evidence of the years that had passed, but her elegance remained undeniable. Yet, beneath the layer of makeup, the fatigue in her expression was unmistakable, revealing a heart burdened by unfulfilled dreams and lost moments.

“Grandma,” Hubert greeted her, his voice soft yet respectful, as he stood by his father’s side.

Marilyn’s heart swelled with affection for Hubert. He was her only grandchild, her sole connection to the joy of family, and yet, their bond felt more like a fragile thread than a sturdy rope. Despite her persistent attempts to invite him to live with her, to nurture a relationship that could flourish, Jasper had always been resistant. The distance between them felt like an insurmountable chasm, one that made her ache with longing every time she saw him.

“Hubert, come here, come here,” she beckoned, her voice filled with warmth, hoping to bridge the gap that had grown between them.

Hubert hesitated, glancing at his father, then back at Marilyn, weighing his options. Eventually, he shuffled over, drawn by the promise of connection.

Marilyn scooped him up in her arms with a gentle laugh. “I brought you so many toys! Come see what I got for you!” Her eyes sparkled with excitement, eager to share her gifts.

Inside, Hubert felt a twinge of reluctance. He wanted to express that toy cars and Ultraman figures didn’t excite him. But the lessons Gordon had instilled in him about accepting kindness echoed in his mind, compelling him to feign enthusiasm.

“Okay! Thank you, Grandma!” he chirped, forcing a smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes.

Marilyn’s heart ached at his polite gratitude. He was her grandson, and yet, they felt like strangers in so many ways.

“Let’s eat first, shall we? You must be starving. I had Susan prepare a feast!” she said, trying to mask her sadness with the promise of a hearty meal.

As they moved toward the dining area, the absence of Barry was palpable. His absence was a familiar ache in the household, a stark reminder of the fractures that had formed over the years. Jasper’s parents had been at odds for as long as Hubert could remember, their arguments echoing through the walls of their home. The scandal of the illegitimate child had driven Barry away, leaving Marilyn to navigate her loneliness. Their daughter Minnie had distanced herself, harboring resentment that kept her away from family gatherings. Jasper’s visits were infrequent, mere fleeting moments in the grand tapestry of their lives.

But today, the anticipated meal was overshadowed by an unexpected presence that lingered in the living room.

Marilyn’s heart sank as she recognized the figure on the sofa. Bianca, who had been confined to the sanatorium for three long years, stood up upon their arrival, her smile barely masking the tension in the air. “Jasper…” she said softly, her voice trembling.

The transformation in Jasper was immediate; his demeanor hardened, his expression turning as cold as ice. “Who let you out?” he spat, his words sharp and accusing.

Bianca’s frail appearance tugged at Marilyn’s heartstrings. The years in isolation had taken their toll; her once ethereal beauty was now marred by a darker, rougher complexion, and the light in her eyes seemed dimmed.

“I… just wanted to see Hubert,” Bianca replied meekly, her gaze shifting to her son, filled with a longing that was palpable.

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