8
Lucas handled the division of assets quickly, so my half came through fast. I used a small portion to purchase a two–bedroom penthouse I’d had my eye on since last month. The previous owners had already left the country, and the place was fully decorated in an elegant French style–exactly what I loved. I signed the paperwork, and on move–in day, I hired movers to bring everything over.
I also called in a few professional organizers, who spent half a day neatly arranging all my belongings. It was worth every penny. I lounged in a chair by the floor–to–ceiling windows, gazing at the city skyline. At last, my life was my own again.
The first person I told about the divorce was Chris. After so many years, I’d grown used to telling him everything, big or small. He’d always been there, no matter what.
“Why’d you bring so much stuff?” I asked when he arrived with a stack of
bags.
“he said with a grin.
8
Lucas handled the division of assets quickly, so my half came through fast. I used a small portion to purchase a two–bedroom penthouse I’d had my eye on since last month. The previous owners had already left the country, and the place was fully decorated in an elegant French style–exactly what I loved. I signed the paperwork, and on move–in day, I hired movers to bring everything over.
I also called in a few professional organizers, who spent half a day neatly arranging all my belongings. It was worth every penny. I lounged in a chair by the floor–to–ceiling windows, gazing at the city skyline. At last, my life was my own again.
The first person I told about the divorce was Chris. After so many years, I’d grown used to telling him everything, big or small. He’d always been there, no matter what.
“Why’d you bring so much stuff?” I asked when he arrived with a stack of bags.
“First meal in the new place has to be cooked at home,” he said with a grin, stocking the fridge with fresh fruits and vegetables. “And milk, because it’s getting cold–you’ll want to let it sit out before drinking. And-”
“Such a housekeeper,” I teased.
Suddenly, I noticed the box on the floor wiggling, and I jumped back in surprise. “Chris! The box is moving!”
He just laughed. “That’s your gift. Go on, open it.”
23:10 Fri, Oct 18 ·
Lucas had always hated animals. I’d never even thought of having a cat. Chris was the only one who knew I loved them.
With a burst of joy, I hugged the kitten. “Chris, you know me too well!”
I played with the kitten for ages, finally naming her Marshmallow. Soon enough, Chris had finished cooking and set a plate of sweet–and–sour ribs
before me.
“Will you be alright here tonight?” He sounded concerned, probably wondering if I was heartbroken after how I’d felt about Lucas.
“You don’t need to worry,” I reassured him. “I wanted the divorce, remember? I don’t feel anything for him anymore. After the accident, it was
like something just clicked in my brain.”
Relief spread across his face, and he smiled. “I’m glad you’ve come to
terms with it. Lucas didn’t deserve you.
“Since you’re free now, why not come back to work?” he suggested.
Before I was pregnant, I’d helped Dad run the company. Then, he’d handed
it over to eighteen–year–old Chris when I needed time to focus on the baby. Despite shareholders‘ skepticism, Dad’s decision had paid off. In just two months, Chris had increased our company’s revenue several times over, earning himself a reputation as one of the industry’s rising stars.
I wanted to return, but I’d been away for five years.
With a steady look, Chris put down his fork and met my gaze. “With your skills, you’ll be back on top in no time. You remember how unstoppable you were, right?”
A
Dad’s expression darkened, and he raised his hand, ready to strike me.
“Dad!” Chris’s voice was a sharp warning.
♡ A
Mom rushed forward, pulling me into her arms. “What are you doing? We’ve ruined half her life already! She’s a grown woman, capable of making her own decisions. Let her live her own life.”
Suddenly, years of buried pain welled up, and I sobbed in my mother’s embrace.
Dad’s eyes turned red, and he smacked his own face in frustration. “It’s my fault. I knew the Blakes were trouble, yet I still sent you to chase after Lucas. I’m the last person who should judge you.”
Mom led me to the couch, taking a moment to look at me and Chris. “Nina, let Chris move in with you to help out.”
I didn’t want to burden him. Besides, I was a grown woman who could take care of herself.
Mom snorted. “Well, you’re lucky if your cooking doesn’t poison you.”
Blushing, I had to admit my cooking skills were more experimental than palatable. At least Chris enjoyed it, which had allowed me to keep up the hobby.
Chris seemed slightly nervous. “Nina, you’ve never lived alone. Plus, there’s so much work to catch you up on at the company.”
He had a point. I couldn’t live on takeout forever, and getting back into work meant needing his help. Not to mention little Marshmallow–I’d need him to help take care of her too.
♡ fo
I nodded, and Chris breathed a sigh of relief, while Mom’s face lit up.
“Who else would look after you like Chris does?” she said with a grin.
Though I had to disagree–Chris still felt like the kid in my eyes. And I missed those early days, back when he’d cling to me like a little shadow.
