Maxine didn’t quite catch her hint. Smiling gently, she said, “Well, I understand. You’ve worked hard–these days, try to get some rest early tonight.
To Maxine’s surprise, Lisa’s cheerful demeanor abruptly vanished. She gazed at Maxine, deep concern clouding her face, for a long moment before finally turning to retreat to her own room.
Maxine couldn’t help feeling perplexed by Lisa’s gaze. ‘Does she really think something has to happen between me and Sebastian tonight?‘ she wondered.
Seeing Maxine’s firm stance, Vivian finally relented. “Alright then,” she said, “If nothing comes up, you must leave first thing tomorrow morning!”
Vivian was furious, like a mother hen fiercely guarding her chick, shielding Maxine under her wing and absolutely terrified that even the slightest mishap might befall her.
Maxine was touched as she looked at Vivian. She thought, ‘She’s such a devoted mother. If only Mona Parks had been half as caring, maybe I wouldn’t have turned out this way.
‘But what a pity…‘
Maxine turned her head slightly, her long lashes casting shadows that veiled her gaze, concealing the turbulent emotions in her eyes.
Sebastian noticed her movement, pressed his lips together, and said gently, “Don’t worry. Brian and I are just staying for one night, we won’t impose on you.”
With that, he picked up his briefcase and headed straight into the guest room downstairs.
He was well aware he wasn’t welcome, but after waiting for her so long, patience was something Sebastian had in abundance. As long as he could stay, there’d always be a chance to get closer to her.
Jessica, who had taken quite a liking to Brian, eagerly grabbed his arm and started telling him about her years abroad. As she mentioned William, her cheeks flushed with excitement. “William is such a wonderful guy!” she gushed. “Next time, I can introduce you two!”
Then she turned eagerly to Maxine and asked, “Maxine, will William be coming with his parents too?”
Maxine came back to herself and nodded in response.
Jessica scrolled through her phone and pulled up a group photo, one that Maxine had taken of her and William during a school event.
In the photo, the two children were hugging happily. William’s soft blond hair brushing against Jessica’s cheek made for an adorable sight.
But to Brian, the expressions of the two in the photo felt unexpectedly jarring. Naturally gloomy and precocious, he’d always found it hard to connect with his peers, making friends was simply out of the question.
Brian thought to himself, ‘Who would’ve thought that even someone as carefree as Jessica could make such a good friend
For a moment, a swirl of conflicting emotions rose in Brian’s chest. He couldn’t quite put his finger on why.
“Brian?” Jessica called again when he remained silent, a hint of curiosity in her voice.
ad?”
Brian came back to his senses, realizing he’d lost his composure. He cleared his throat softly and murmured, “Well… maybe next time.”
Watching Sebastian enter the room, Brian stood up and said, “I’m going to bed. Gotta get up early for school tomorrow.”
Having been on leave for so long, Jessica looked at Brian with a bit of pity. “Brian,” she said, “let’s talk after you get back from school. Who knows, you might even catch me on a call with William!”
Lately, she and William had been in regular contact, with each call lasting over an hour. She would excitedly share stories about the local culture and
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Chapter 273
sights in Hatholand, along with photos she took during her outings.
Brian tensed up, as if struck by a nerve. “We’ll see about that later!” he said abruptly.
With those words, he stepped into the guest room and shut the door behind him.
In the room, Sebastian looked up at him. “What’s wrong? Upset because Jessica made a new friend?”
AD
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.
