Chapter 30
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As the officers dragged Ella away, I didn’t bother following them. Whatever she screamed, I ignored. The only thing that mattered was that justice was finally being served. The police reminded her that anything she said could and would be used against her in a court of law.
On the drive back to the mansion, Max glanced at me. “So, do you feel much better now?”
I exhaled, leaning back in my seat. “In fact, very satisfied. I’ve finally gotten rid of the thing that’s been troubling me. Now, I can actually relax.”
Max chuckled. “I could tell you were enjoying the show. You looked like you were savoring every second of it.”
I smirked. “Of course I was. But trust Ella to ruin it with her jealousy.”
“Jealousy?”
I shrugged. “She thinks I want to be with Neil or something. It’s ridiculous. I moved on from that man years ago. The fact that she stooped this low trying to destroy my life over some delusion, is beyond frustrating.”
Max shook his head. “Well, it’s over now. She won’t be interfering in your life again.”
“I hope so.” I sighed, rubbing my temples. “She acts like she’s the center of the universe. It’s exhausting.”
“I know. But for now, just rest. You’re still not fully recovered.”
I rolled my eyes playfully. “I’m fine, Max.”
When we got back to the mansion, I spotted Riele and helen in the garden. They were seated on the grass, heads close together, deep in conversation. The peaceful sight made me smile.
As soon as helen saw me, her face lit up.
I laughed. “Really? Do I?”
“Whoa, Mommy! Did you go to a magical event? You look like a princess!”
She giggled, nodding enthusiastically. She was wrapped in a bright yellow sweater oversized for her tiny frame, making her look even smaller.
Without hesitation, I sat on the grass beside her, not caring about my expensive gown. I just wanted to soak in this moment.
“What are you two doing?” I asked.
Riele answered on Helen’s behalf. “We’re picking flowers.”
Helen grinned. “And talking about you!”
I raised an eyebrow. “Talking about me?”
“Yes, Mommy! We said you look like a fairy!”
I chuckled. “A fairy, huh?”
“Yes! Uncle Max said the same thing the other day!”
I turned to Max with a mischievous grin. He immediately looked away, feigning innocence.
“Oh?” I teased. “Uncle Max thinks I look like a fairy?”
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13:58 Wed, 12 Mar
Chapter 30
“Alright, alright.” Max waved me off. “Let’s focus on the flowers, shall we?”
I smirked but let it slide. “Alright, let’s see. What are you looking for?”
Helen beamed. “Snails, Mommy!”
I laughed. “Well then, I’d love to join the snail–hunting crew.”
“Yay! Let’s do it!”
For the rest of the afternoon, we searched for snails, picked flowers, and laughed in the garden..
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By the time it was sunset, we finally headed inside. After giving Helen a warm bath and tucking her into bed, I took a quick shower myself.
Feeling refreshed, I made my way to the living room, sinking into the couch with a deep sigh.
Finally. A peaceful night.
Now, let’s see what’s on TV.
As I settled into the couch, the soft hum of the television filled the room. I wasn’t really paying attention to it hjust letting the noise serve as background comfort. But then I heard a slight shuffling behind me.
I turned my head, and there was Max.
I sighed, rubbing the back of my neck. “I’m so sorry about today. I know I might’ve overreacted a little.”
He shook his head. “No, I’m glad you took that girl down. How could she do that to you? That was really upsetting. As long as you’re satisfied, that’s all that matters.”
I drew my knees to my chest, looking at him with genuine gratitude. “Thank you, Max. Seriously. For everything you do for me. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”
His expression softened. “And I’ll always be here for you.”
He smiled, then gestured at the screen. “What are you watching?”
He glanced at it, unimpressed.
I shrugged. “There’s nothing else on.”
“Good.” He exhaled, as if preparing himself.
“Actually, I had something to tell you earlier, but everything with Ella distracted me.”
I sat up straighter. “Oh? What is it? Are you okay?”
I instinctively scanned his face, searching for any signs that something was wrong. But he laughed, shaking his head.
“I’m fine, don’t worry. It’s just that…” He hesitated, scratching the back of his neck. “I, uh… I won’t be around for a while.”
My stomach dropped. “Wait, what? Why?”
“I have to go on a business trip.”
I sighed. He had been lingering around me for so long, putting off his work just to protect me. I had known this moment
would come.
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Chapter 30
“When will you be back?”
He smirked. “Why? Are you sad to see me go?”
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I rolled my eyes, but the answer was obvious. “Of course I am, Max! What are you talking about? You’re my only companion in this house. I’m going to be so bored without you.”
He chuckled, leaning against the armrest. “What about Helen?”
I sighed dramatically. “After she’s done talking about her cartoons, she goes off to do her own thing. And your mom, well, we don’t have much in common.”
He nodded, amused. “I’ll be back as soon as I can.”
I eyed him carefully. “You said you had something to tell me. What was it?”
His playful expression faltered for a split second, and I noticed how his jaw tightened.
“I think I’ll tell you when I come back.”
I frowned. “Why? Is it something serious?”
“No,” he said quickly. “If anything, it’s funny.”
I didn’t entirely believe him, but I let it slide.
I sighed, leaning back. “I’m really going to miss you, Max.”
He gave me a small smile. “Me too. But promise me something?”
“What?”
His
gaze turned serious. “Stay away from trouble while I’m gone. And please, just stay in the house.”
I groaned. “Why? Everything’s fine now. The threats are gone.”
“I know,” he admitted. “But as long as I’m not here, I won’t feel comfortable knowing you’re out there alone.”
I didn’t like people dictating what I could and couldn’t do, but I understood his concern. After everything that had happened, it made sense that he’d be a little paranoid.
I sighed. “Is that all, Mr. Boss?”
He grinned. “Yeah, that’s all.”
“Good. Now let’s just focus on whatever’s on TV.”
He nodded, but I could tell something was still on his mind.
“Are you sure you can’t tell me now?” I asked again.
He hesitated, then smirked. “I will. I promise.”
I gave him a suspicious look but let it go. “Fine. I’ll look forward to it then.”
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