The Silk Weaver's Daughter by Elizabeth Kales

Author:Elizabeth Kales [Kales, Elizabeth]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Tags: Romance, Historical
ISBN: 9781453802571
Google: APiTpwAACAAJ
Amazon: 1453802576
Barnesnoble: 1453802576
Goodreads: 13354415
Publisher: CreateSpace
Published: 2010-03-23T00:00:00+00:00

Jacques lasted only one more week. Even the miraculous teas from the Wu-li Mountains could not help him. It was as though he had only been waiting for his son to return. Marc spent most of the time sitting by his side and, in Jacques’ better moments, he told him much about his adventure in China. However, he could not reveal to him his affair with Mei Ling. He had begun to feel guilty about how readily he had betrayed Louise.

Occasionally, the patient would rally and mention something he wanted his son to take care of in France. Sometimes he would simply give him guidance about life. Marc marvelled at how his father faced death as bravely as he had lived his life. He gave no indication of fear.

“I have some regrets in my life, Marc,” he said. “Don’t make the same mistakes I’ve made, son. If you truly love Louise, stay faithful to her no matter what. I know it’s not normal in our society, but a wife will lose trust if you don’t, and somehow they always know. It’s my last piece of advice to you, my boy.”

Marc’s face grew hot with shame. Did his father sense his indiscretion? He wondered about the statement and it bothered him for a while. However, on the final day of Jacques’ life, the implication became clear to him. As the day wore on, his father weakened. His breathing became laboured and the doctor came and went, shaking his head. Late in the evening, Jacques clutched at Marc’s arm.

“Tell your mother—I’m sorry for many things; but I always loved her—very much.”

His father’s words were so soft; Marc had to bend to hear them.

“Of course, Papa,” he replied.

Then the shuddering began again. He was standing up to get some heated stones from the brazier when he heard the rattle of his father’s breath—then silence. It was over. He reached down and closed Jacque’s eyes; then quietly knelt by his bed to pray. He stayed there for some moments, privately weeping, before going to tell the servant who was taking a much-needed rest. The realization came to him that he had admired his father more than anyone else on earth.

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